Question NW1122 to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

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28 November 2019 - NW1122

Profile picture: Marais, Mr S

Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

With reference to the unserviceability of SA Air Force (SAAF) aircraft, which is a problem made worse by the backlog of maintenance on the specified aircraft coupled with the challenges experienced by Denel, what (a) is her department doing to mitigate the challenges which, if not addressed urgently, might reduce the SAAF's capabilities to that of only a dismal Airwing status and (b) are the relevant details of the point at which certain types of aircraft will have to stop flying?

Reply:

a) Engagements between the Department of Defence and National Treasury are taking place to address the funding challenges of the SANDF in general. Capabilities will gradually come to a grinding stop if both State Owned Entities like Denel and the DOD are not adequately resources to fulfil on their various mandates. The decision to stop flying will be determined by airworthiness and aviation safety considerations. The SAAF has qualified personnel that monitor and certify aircraft airworthiness and safety.

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