Tag Archives: SANDF
SAAF Prestige Evening Awards
The South African Airforce held a Prestige evening awards ceremony at Airforce Base Swartkop on the 31 January 2019.The following day the Airforce was to celebrate 99 years of air power excellence.
The aim of the Prestige Evening is to showcase the service excellence by bestowing honours and eminence to the sterling work the done by the different SAAF entities and individuals in their varied stations.
Invited guests were treated to a mini flying display by various aircraft in the South African Airforce inventory, that being the Silver Falcons led by Major Omphile Matloane ,an Oryx helicopter and the SAAF Museums De Haviland Vampire flown by Lt Col Glen ‘Gringo’ Warden.
Unfortunately there was no Rooivalk display due to the helicopter picking up a snag during its validation flight earlier in the afternoon. The Weather gods also didn’t agree with the evenings proceeding’s and rather made everyone move into Hanger 5 where supper and speeches took place due to the heavy rain downpour.
Once everyone had run for shelter due to the rain in hangar five “The Centre of Aviation Awareness Hanger ” where the to the choir entertained us until the awards ceremony began.
The Chief of the South African Airforce and MCs for the evening congratulated each of the following units for the outstanding contribution to making the organisation a successful team in their different roles they’re play in the SAAF.
For the rest of the evening we got to listen to the South African Airforce Band, with a special musician who joined us for the evening, Mr
Jonas Gwangwa. He has been an important figure in South African jazz for over 40 years.
Mr Jonas Gwangwa
We would like to say thank you to the South African Airforce for their hospitality and to the Chief of the SAAF for welcoming us to the event personally.We wish the SAAF a great and safe year ahead. The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display.
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The Work Horse of the SAAF-The Oryx Helicopter
The Oryx Medium transport helicopter, is the upgraded version of the puma helicopter which served the South African Airforce for many years and saw the helicopter take part in the Angola border war. The SAAF were the largest operator of the then Aerospatiale SA330 Puma. The Oryx Helicopter named after the Oryx antelope or Gemsbok in Afrikaans. The first flight of the Oryx helicopter was in
1986 .
A 330L Puma, no. 177, was converted to Oryx configuration and used as a prototype and as the results exceeded all expectations the Oryx programme was launched. The sanctions era encouraged the local aviation industry to become self-sufficient in producing helicopter components and, with the knowledge to assemble pre-manufactured helicopters, led to the technical skill for producing complete Puma helicopters, should the need arise. This included complete airframes and dynamic components such as gearboxes, rotor blades and turbines and hot section parts. The engine intakes are fitted with locally produced dust filters and ensure higher efficiency and reliability.
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The Oryx is an upgraded and remanufactured version of the SA 330 Puma equivalent to the Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma now known as Airbus Helicopters, and offers a performance improvement over the original, in addition to cutting the operating costs by 25 to 30%. First examples were fitted with the latest dust filters as were then in use on the SAAF Puma. These units had a moveable auxiliary air intake on the front. A newly designed dust filter was later fitted without the auxiliary air intake. Should one of the engines fail, the remaining powerplant has sufficient power for the Oryx to complete its mission. If an engine fails in flight, the management system automatically advances the power setting on the remaining engine. This ensures the Oryx sustains flight with very little crew input, during such an emergency.
The basic airframe is still that of the original Puma, but the structure was modernized by extensive use of locally produced carbon-composite materials. These materials result in an airframe that is lighter and more rugged, which increases the Oryx’s endurance and maneuverability. The obvious external difference is the new modified tailboom which is slightly longer (50 cm), than the Puma.
The Oryx is a multi-role helicopter. Its main uses in the SAAF are: medium to heavy transport and communications flights, task force rapid deployment operations, fire fighting, and search & rescue missions. It can carry up to 20 fully equipped troops, or 6 wounded on stretchers with 4 attendants, or 3,000 kg freight carried in the cabin, or 4,500 kg freight on an external sling. Tasks for the South African Navy include transport, replenishment at sea, force multiplication, reconnaissance, search & rescue, etc.
Most Oryx are equipped with a 50m hydraulic hoist, rated for up to 2 personnel, for use in rescue operations. Additionally a large metal A-frame structure can be fitted in the cargo bay which allows up to 4 personnel to rappel or abseil from the aircraft simultaneously. Oryx operating from coastal squadrons are fitted with emergency flotation gear on the sponsons and nose.
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The Oryx offers a number of advantages and this was further developed from an early stage in the program. With the Denel Rooivalk of 16 Squadron now in service, this combat helicopter will escort the Oryx in a high threat environment. However, as an interim measure an Oryx with door mounted machine guns did appear. Oryx helicopters are constantly refined and updated. A full glass cockpit is planned for a future update. The latest addition is the fitting of flare dispensers and the update of the Threat Warning Receivers.
Photo Credit Marriane Eksteen
There is an electronic warfare (stand-off communications jamming/radar jamming) version of the Oryx that is equipped with the Grinaker Systems Technologies (GST) GSY 1501 jamming system, among others. The first Oryx variant with a large log periodic antenna on the starboard side was regarded as quite an effective EW platform. This platform is capable of disrupting key communications during various stages of modern, air-, land-, and sea battles. In addition it is used as an effective training aid to the SANDF, to test their function as an effective fighting force, despite any EW methods employed against the SA Forces. A further advantage is, EW equipment in use by the SA Forces can be effectively evaluated and calibrated under simulated battlefield scenarios. One variant has its main cabin doors replaced by dome shaped antennas.
Oryx Helicopters have flown many rescue missions over the past couple of years including The 2000 Mozambique flood which was a natural disaster that occurred in February and March 2000.Other rescue missions include offshore tanker vessels to mountain rescues in the Drakensberg.
Operational Flying of the Oryx in the DRC
During the Burundi conflict the SAAFs Oryx’s and Alouette III Helicopters were deployed on peace keeping missions. As times have changed the SAAF are now in the DRC on peace keeping missions!
The Oryx has come under small arms fire since it has been deployed to the DRC. All incidents have been minor and helicopter crews have managed to get the aircraft back to base.
Since the end of October 2013, the South African Air Force has deployed three Rooivalk combat helicopters to the DRC, and these have also been shot at by rebel groups in the restive country. However, the aircraft have not sustained serious damage.
“The Oryx and Rooivalk also supply armed air escorts, fire support, search and rescue and extraction operations. The unit is on standby 24/7 and boasts a reaction time of 45 minutes.”
General characteristics
- Crew: Three
- Capacity: 20 fully equipped troops
- Length: 15.45 m (50 ft 8 in)
- Height: 5.14 m (16 ft 10 in)
- Empty weight: 3,600 kg (7,937 lb)
- Max takeoff weight: 8,000 kg (17,637 lb)
- Powerplant: 2 × Turbomeca Makila IA1 turboshaft engines, 1,400 kW (1,900 hp) each
- Main rotor diameter: 15.6 m (51 ft 2 in)
- Main rotor area: 191 m2 (2,060 sq ft)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 306 km/h (190 mph; 165 kn)
- Combat range: 303 km (188 mi; 164 nmi)
- Ferry range: 2,000 km (1,243 mi; 1,080 nmi)
- Service ceiling: 7,162 m (23,497 ft)
- Rate of climb: 15.25 m/s (3,002 ft./min)
Armament
- Guns: 2 × door-mounted 7.62 mm machine guns (optional; either the FNMAG or Denel SS-77
The Oryx AS32 operates with the following Squadrons in the South African Airforce:
87 Helicopter Flying School-AFB Bloemspruit
22 Squadron-AFB Ysterplaat
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17 Squadron-AFB Swartkop
15 Squadron-AFB Durban
19 Squadron-AFB Hoedspruit
Test Flight and Development Centre-AFB Overberg
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SANDF To Start Year Off With A Bang
Armed Forces Day is the broad term used to describe a day observed by nations around the world to honor their military forces.
“Armed Forces Day is a day on which the South African population honours men and women of the SANDF by affirming its support and gratitude to them for upholding the constitution of the Republic and defending the territorial integrity of the Republic and protecting its people,” the DoD said in its statement.
This year Cape Town will host Armed Forces Day, The South African Navy will be a major attraction this year with Simons Town being the home port of the SA Navy. Its the SA Navy’s turn to host and plan this years Armed Forces Day as last year in Kimberly saw the SA Airforce host the event.
The week leading up to the main parade on Thursday 21 February at the Table Bay Beach. These include the opening of a fan park at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha; an inter-faith church service, a wreath laying ceremony at the University of Cape Town and to top it all off with a capability demonstration night shoot at Muizenberg’s Sunrise Beach on February 19.
See also https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_qgpoWJ11g
The South African Navy is the naval warfare branch of the South African National Defence Force, which has a number of assets protecting the South African coastline for some years now.
Previous Armed Forces days parades have taken place in Bloemfontein in the Free State, Potchefstroom in the North West Province, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, Durban in Kwa-Zulu Natal, Kimberly in the Northern Cape and Finally Cape Town will have hosted Armed Forces Day.
See also https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRX0KwJFFn8
More information will be available for the public as we get closer to the event. The City of Cape Town will first have the State of the nation address (SONA) where their will be a flypast for the opening of the event.
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Africa Aerospace and Defence Airshow 2018
Africa Aerospace and Defence Airshow 2018
The 10th edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence trade and airshow has come and gone, what was definitely the most exciting show we all looked forward to panned out to be a great success once again. The event took place over the 19th-23 September 2018 at Air force Base Waterkloof, Centurion, City of Tshwane.
Static Park
The apron was full of aircraft and most of the hangers were full of all different companies showing off their technology to the world. The crowds were kept busy with all the walking through the halls and interacting with aircraft and pilots.
Crowds flocked to the gates around the base from the 22-23 September to get the best seat along the crowd line,this to insure they don’t miss any part of the exiting program Colonel Keith Fryer(flight director) and Keith Andrews and their team put together to excite and show off air capabilities of the South African Airforce (SAAF). The Saturday show started off with the Sound of Freedom, that been the sound of jets, six Gripens from 2 Squadron and 3 Hawks from 85 Combat Flying School took to the skies and put a formation flypast over the crowds.What a way to start a airshow!
With Airforce Base Swartkop down the road from Airforce Base Waterkloof, Swartkop was used as a second base for aircraft including the new microlight display team known as the Misasa Aerial Display-MAD Team. The team is made up of Adrienne Visser as lead, Pieter Kriel at the number two, Gary Heyenreich at number three, Gavin Van Der Berg at four and number five Marius Nel. It was great to see a microlight display team after the absence at airshows for some years now,we hope to see them on the regular airshow circuit in the future. There was a Airplane Factory Sling 4 and a Raven 500 formation Flypast.A mass Bathawk display was put on show, and is shown why its a great aircraft for Anti-Poaching missions.A light sky jeep was also thrown into the formation as well as the wagtail gyrocopter, all aircraft not shy to the African bush!
Raven 500
Wagtail
Capital Sounds once again had their ever hard working team at the event and this has to be the longest line of speakers that Capital has at a airshow in South Africa. Brian Emmenis and Leon Du Plessis informed the crowd of each aircraft taking to the skies and brought a lot of the airshow vibe to Waterkloof.
Capital Sounds
Lieutenant colonel Craig “Shark” Lesson once again did 85 Combat Flying School proud,as he put the Hawk Mk120 through its paces.The Officer Commanding 85 Combat Flying School displayed both one of the Flag Hawks’271′ and one of the grey aircraft during the course of AAD2018.Andrew Blackwood Murray flew his Nashua Extra 300 and Neville Ferriria flew his Slick 540 with a combined aerobatic sequence with high energy aerobatics and low knife edge passes so the crowd could capture the sleek lines on both aircraft. Neville Ferreria had just returned from Hungry where he is flying the Geneavation Aerobatic aircraft for the country. He is surely doing South Africa proud!
Hawk MK120 ‘Vlaggie’
Hawk MK120 ‘262’
Andrew Blackwood Murray Extra 300
Slick 540 Neville Ferreira
Paramount Groups AHRLAC aircraft did some tight formation flying and was defiantly a way to show it off to the worlds market of defence. Staying with the locally manufactured aircraft the 16 Squadron Rooivalk was put through its paces in the UN white livery by Major Paul ‘Raccoon’ Kempthorn, at the end of his display he released a large amount of flares,a great end to a display!
Paramount Group AHRLACs
Paramount Group AHRLACs
16 Squadron Rooivalk
16 Squadron Rooivalk
The Rand Airport based Puma Flying Lions Harvards and Taillifts Cows Pitts Specials flew their usual display infront of the 45 000+ crowds.The SAAF Museum and Harvard Club Harvards and a single Douglas DC4 did a couple of formation Flypasts over the crowd and brought back many memory’s of the former SAAF trainer before the Harvard was replaced by the Pilatus PC7MKII. The DC4 then went onto doing a solo display flown by Captain Bill Good.
Puma Flying Lions Harvards
Taillifts Cows Aerobatic Pitts Team
Mass Radial Display
Harvard Club
Harvard Club
Douglas DC4
Douglas DC4
The cockpit ambassadors of the South African Airforce The Silver Falcons Aerobatic Team 82,put on a great display led by Major Omphile Matloane who received his Golden Wings a couple of days before the start of AAD2018.Lt Colonel Glen Wraden flew the Aero L29 from AFB Swartkop, The Airforce of Zimbabwe K8 was also flown with a support CASA 212 on static display.
Silver Falcons
Silver Falcons PC7MKIIs
Falcon 5 Sivu Tangana
L29
L29
K8
K8
There were two mini-wars on the day of the show,both from the SAAF Museum and from the current SAAF inventory of aircraft.A vast amount of pyrotechnics and armored vehicles were used during the show.
SAAF Museum Bosbok and Cessna C185
Ratels
Oryx Helicopters
Top Cover Rooivalk and Hawks
Ivan van Der Schaar and Jon-Marc Hill, Juba Jourbet flew the Bi-plane formation that being a Boeing Stearman and Antonov 2 ‘Little Annie’.Later in the day Little Annie escorted by the Stearman dropped a large amount of Manhattan Marshmellows for the crowds.
AN2 and Boeing Stearman
AN2 ‘Little Annie’
AN2 marshmallow drop
2 Squadron was well represented at the show once again,we were able to see six Gripens in formation,two Gripens in the mini-war and a solo gripen display flown by Major Geoffrey ‘Spartan’ Cooper and a 2v1 combat routine.
2 Squadron Gripens
Gripen JAS39D flown by ‘Midnite’ and ‘Bluebird’
Gripens being flown by ‘Cipher’ and ‘Doberman’
28 Squadron was busy during the mini-war delivering troops into the simulated battle-zone, Lt Col Clint Hawtrey also gave one of the best C130BZ displays to date. What a display it was to witness!
C130BZ
C130BZ dropping flares
C130BZ during the mini-war
A huge of congrats must go to the organisers of AAD2018
Florence Musengi-AAD Chairperson
Simphiwe Hamilton-Excutive Director
Leon Dillman-CEO CAASA
Leona Redelinghuys-Exhibition Director
Marketing and Public Relations-Nakedi Phasha
Youth Development Program-Kholisile Khumalo
General Fabian Zimpande “Zakes” Msimang-Chief of the South African Airforce
The 11th Edition of Africa Aerospace and Defence, AAD2020, will take place 16 – 20 September 2020. 2020 SAAF and the Aero Club of South Africa will be celebrating their centenary birthdays and this creating lots of expectations among young and old to see a Super Show. All we can do is wait and see what they deliver and how many Countries except the invite to join South Africa on this centenary celebrations.
Click to enlarge photos below
Air Power Capability Demonstration 2018
Air Power Capability demonstration 2018
One of the more exciting events the SAAF invites media and VIP guests to is the Air Power Capability demonstration, this year the event was in conjunction with the Africa Aerospace and Defence show which is currently been held at Airforce Base Waterkloof in Pretoria.The purpose of the exercise is to invigorate the SAAF’s combat readiness and its role in peace support operations.
Media and guests were once again flown up to Polokwane Gateway International Airport before been transported by bus to the Roodewal Bombing Range around 40 minutes drive from Polokwane.On a arrival SAAF Fire and Rescue Services had already been fighting ranging fires in the area as well as some Oryx helicopters who were working hard with the assist of the choppers capabilities of using a “babi’ bucket to put the fires out.
A safety briefing was followed by the Chief of the South African Airforce General Fabian Zimpande “Zakes” Msimang and other military personnel,the demo started off with pathfinders who excited an Oryx Helicopter and landed in the simulated battle zone.A recce run was then carried out by a Gripen and Hawk,the Gripen continued to orbit before exciting the battle area.Two Oryx Helicopters then came in for a water drop again assisted with their bambi bucket.
Path finders exciting the Oryx
Pathfinders
Hawk and Gripen Recce run
2 Squadron JAS39C Gripen
Two Oryx Helicopters with Bambi Buckets
The sound of thunder was then echoing the skies of Roodewal with a mock dog fight between a enemy hawk and two friendly Gripens. The fighters then joined up for a friendly flypast. A single C130BZ and a CASA 212 performed a cargo drop before the return of the helicopters followed by a single A109LUH and a BK117 landed in the battle zone bringing in the first of the troops. At the same time two 16 Squadron Rooivalks provided top cover.It was unfortunately not long after that a Oryx had a hard landing resulting to the end of the exercise.The crew and troops were lucky to have light injuries from the landing.
Gripen and Hawk Formation
C130BZ Cargo drop
Agusta A109LUH
15 Squadron ‘C’ Flight BK117
16 Squadron Rooivalk
Oryx Helicopter
“The crash landing happened in front of invited guests, foreign diplomats and the media. As the aircraft hit the ground part of the tail rotor and wheel collapsed. When the helicopter came to a stop quick thinking by the crew saw the engines cut,” he said.
Colonel Eugene Motati of SAAF Corporate Communication said: “The unfortunate incident occurred and as you all know details are not clear. We can confirm the pilot was Lieutenant Colonel King, we are thankful there were no fatalities or major injuries, just a minor ankle injury to one person. You witnessed this occurrence during the trooping manoeuvre, at the moment we do not suspect mechanical failure and we don’t want to speculate further. We hope the board of enquiry will give more details and the cause of the accident.
“I want to emphasise we are happy with the reaction of the aircrew controlling the aircraft without any further damage. It could have been worse if not correctly handled. So we are proud of the performance of our airmen, they displayed excellent airmanship in that space of time, because it happened so quickly.“The crew and troops were able to extract safely from the aircraft.”
The event ended by a c130BZ dropping flares and a single Gripen passing overhead the guests going into a vertical at the same time dropping flares.A quick supper and we were off back to Polokwane and a 40 minutes flight back to Waterkloof.
C130BZ Flare drop
2 Squadron Gripen
Official Opening of AAD 2018
Official Opening of AAD 2018
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially in the City of Tshwane – South Africa’s administrative capital, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
This show dates back to when DEXSA 1975 ,The Africa Aerospace and Defense (AAD) Expo was born from the Aerospace Africa civilian exhibition that originates from the 1975 Lanseria Air Show and the DEXSA military exhibition.
The first in the series of aviation exhibitions titled “Aviation Africa.”
The show was opened by a 21 gun salute and a flypast by three Agusta A109LUH,the president Cyril Ramaphosa then addressed the crowd with the following:
Agusta A109LUH flag flypast
Agusta A109LUHs
“South Africa views the role of the military in the modern context as a developmental force, both nationally and continentally”, this is the view from President Cyril Ramaphosa in his opening address of the 10th Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition, taking place from 19 to 23 September at the Waterkloof air force base in Pretoria.
President Cyril Ramaphosa
According to the President, the show brings defence agencies and defence industries together in reflections on the evolution of security – and how they must each adapt to the requirements of the future.
“Improved security attracts investment, encourages growth and promotes development. In support of continental economic development, the SANDF forms part of the continental military intervention capability, in the form of regional intervention forces, as well as the centralised capability under direct control of the African Union. He argued that the South African National Defence Force ought to involve itself, with African partners, in peace missions to improve security in strife-torn regions. These intervention capabilities can reduce the risk of major interstate conflict and civil war.”
“From a national perspective, the development role of our defence force implies involvement in border safeguarding, adding that South Africa’s border safeguarding operation, Corona, also focuses on preventing the illegal exploitation of national resources.”
As far as internal security is concerned, the defence force must always be ready to provide additional capacity to maintain order and stability within the relevant governance framework.
“A defence force that is a developmental unlocks substantial peace dividends for states and effectively reduces the investment required in defence over time.”
Whilst the government continues to prioritise socio-economic objectives that provide the best possible future for the youth, he was adamant that the economy is under pressure pointedly saying the means available in the fiscus are finite.
The President acknowledged that the South African National Defence Force was adapting to this economic reality.In this regard, the SANDF was prioritising within the implementation of the Defence Review by focusing on the core roles of the defence force. He said several ideas were being explored to modernise the funding model of defence and reduce its dependency on the fiscus. Still, for both security and developmental reasons, South Africa was looking after its defence industry.
“It is a national asset that has value for many departments and agencies of government,” he said. “It innovates products for the greater economy, such as systems that improve the safety of railway lines or improve the efficiency of shark nets. The common TV decoder in widespread use in South Africa is based on the intellectual property from a military technology project.”
The President noted the industry’s role as an important employer and an incubator of scarce skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“Some of our aircraft-related businesses are expanding in a highly competitive environment as suppliers to the biggest players in the global aircraft industry.” The industry is a steady earner of foreign exchange by delivering to the world leading products such as the Husky vehicle for detecting explosives and improvised explosive devices.”
In support of the industry, he outlined the many initiatives to maximise the value of the defence industry, notably the Defence Industry Strategy developed by the National Defence Industry Council, a Defence Sector Charter developed to open space for private participation by small and medium black enterprises and a defence industry fund that was launched in June this year as a funding mechanism for industry.
Government intends to support the industry to become export-driven on the back of international investment, by having a policy stance favouring international joint ventures with local industry. He noted defence industry investment destination, South Africa combines many unique factors.
Local industry still tends to own the full supply chain necessary for conceptualising and manufacturing their end product. Unlike many international ventures, defence production in South Africa does not imply multinational interdependency.
In terms of intellectual property, South Africa is one of less than ten countries that can manufacture missiles of a certain level of sophistication. He used this as an example, saying the development of intellectual property into technology demonstrators is very cost-effective due to the exchange rate between the rand and the major international currencies.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and General Solly Shoke Chief of the SANDF
“Many nations, from different parts of the world, have recently expressed interest in becoming involved in joint ventures with our industry. The African Aerospace and Defence exhibition offers a massive opportunity for all present to identify areas of synergy and convert them into joint ventures.”
The President concluded by saying that South Africa is interested in leveraging intellectual property into tangible products and export contracts. “We assume that the interest of our visitors here is a good return on investment and we are confident that it can be achieved.”
A flypast from nine PC7MKIIs from the Central Flying School concluded the ceremony.
Nine PC7MKIIs from Central Flying School Langebaanweg
AAD2018 Aircraft Arrivals Update
With the build up to AAD2018,the excitement is building with aircraft arrivals. Each day until Tuesday 2018-09-18 we will update on each aircraft arrival to AFB Waterkloof.
2018-09-15 Silver Falcons & Central Flying School Pilatus PC7MKIIs Arrival.
2018-09-16 USAF Boeing C17 Globemaster Arrival.
C17 Final approach for landing at AFB Waterkloof
2018-09-17 Monday Arrivals
Airforce of Zimbabwe CASA 212
Airforce of Zimbabwe K8
SUDAN SAFAT 03
USAF C130J
22 Squadron Lynx
44 Squadron CASA 212
41 Squadron Cessna 208A Caravan
Sling 2
41 Squadron KingAir
Ahrlac
19 Squadron Agusta A109LUH
Red Cross Agusta A119
Bell 212
R66
Ahrlacs
USAF C130J Final approach at AFB Waterkloof
USAF C130J
USAF C130J
LC130’Snowbird’ arrived at AFB Waterkloof at 20:30 2018-09-17
Airforce Base Waterkloof 80th Anniversary Celebration
The 1st August 2018,the South African Airforce celebrated Airforce Base Waterkloof’s 80th Birthday Celebration. The base is home to a number of units and flying squadrons, and is a key airbase to the entire country. The base was officially opened on the 1st August 1938 as Waterkloof Air Station in Pretoria. Initially the base was used for practicing forced landings, secondary to Airforce Station Swartkop down the road from AFB Waterkloof.
The jet age slowly creeped upon the South African Airforce, the need for tarmac runways with concrete hard standings were accelerated and make welcome for the then new generation jet powered aircraft. In July 1951 the newly delivered de Havilland Vampires of 1 Squadron were moved to AFS Swartkop in preparation for the construction work to take place. In August 1951 the last aircraft moved out of Waterkloof were the Auster mkVs of 42 Squadron.
Work was scheduled to start on 7 January 1952 and it was estimated that it would take 2½ years at a cost of 434 000 pounds.
When completed it was planned that 1, 2, 3, 4 and 42 Squadrons would operate from there together with 1 and 15 Air Depots. However little of those plans came to pass and it was only in 1956 that flying units were able to move back to Waterkloof. The construction of the runways and other associated tasks therefore took nearly five years to completion.
The period thereafter however saw the vast expansion of the South African Air Force of the 1960’s and 1970’s.Aircraft types that were based at the base at this period of times ranged from De Havilland Vampires,F86 Sabres, Various Mirage 3s,Mirage F1s, Hawker Siddeley Buccaneers,C130s and C160s to name a few. The public have also been privileged enough to beat the base during early day airshows and open days, and more recently the 1195 DEXSA international Airshows and right up to Africa Aerospace and Defence Shows where we will be back at AFB Waterkloof from the 19-23 September 2018.
Units based at AFB Waterkloof
21 Squadron – VIP transport
28 Squadron – Medium transport
41 Squadron – Light transport
44 Squadron – Light transport
111 Squadron – Light transport (reserve)
140 Squadron – Light transport (reserve)
504 Squadron – Security
5 Air Servicing Unit – Maintenance support
Central Photographic Institute – Photographic services
JARIC, (Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Centre) The SANDF National Imagery Exploitation Centre – Strategic Imagery Intelligence (IMINT) support
Mobile Deployment Wing – Emergency response
SAAF Telecommunications Centre – Communications
Ditholo Training Area is managed as an external component of AFB Waterkloof
1 August 2018 80th Birthday Celebration’s
At 07H00 members of the air force and invited guested assembled at Airforce Base Waterkloof at 28 Squadrons Hanger, as we waited for the days proceedings to start. We were welcomed by Brig Gen M.K Petso, Officer Commanding AFB Waterkloof, a scripture reading and prayer was followed before the fly-past from a 44 Squadron Casa 212.A paradrop from the Pretoria Military Parachute Club who are all SANDF members jumped from a 28 Squadron C130BZ before ending a fly-past with the Casa, once all skydivers had landed safely.
44 Squadron Casa 212
28 Squadron C130BZ
28 Squadron C130BZ
Members were entertained from the SAAF Choir and SAAF Band, it was then time to cut the 80th Anniversary Cake and a Aerial photo of an 80 with the member’s of the air force and invited guests. What a privilege to be part of the birthday celebrations and be part of that 80.All member’s had the opportunity to carry on with the festivities, where braai areas were made use for invited guests and the use of 28 Squadrons bar area.
Brig Gen M.K. Petso and Brig Gen M.I Buthelezi
The Aviation Shop was present at the function with the shadow of two C130s in the hanger, where member’s could by their memorabilia of Aviation from die cast aircraft to mugs, key rings etc. You could also purchase a 80th anniversary hat for R60.
41 Squadron Cessna 208 Caravan
44 Squadron Casa 212
21 Squadron Cessna Citation
We would to wish AFB Waterkloof a happy birthday and many more safe years to come. Thanks to the SAAF for the invite. We looking forward to AAD2018 in a month and half time. We will be at the base a couple of days before the Trade and Airshow start.
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AAD 2018 Media Launch
With the upcoming Africa Aerospace and Defense show around the corner, excitement is definitely building as we were invited to the 100 day media launch at AFB Waterkloof officers mess in Pretoria. AAD known as the Africa Aerospace and Defense is a regular trade show and airshow held every two years at AFB Waterkloof in Pretoria South Africa ,this is all part of unlocking Africa’s Aerospace and defense potential. This show dates back to when DEXSA 1975 ,The Africa Aerospace and Defense (AAD) Expo was born from the Aerospace Africa civilian exhibition that originates from the 1975 Lanseria Air Show and the DEXSA military exhibition.
The first in the series of aviation exhibitions titled “Aviation Africa.”
In 1995 the AMD organised the hugely successful SAAF ’75 Expo in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the South African Air Force SAAF which is the second oldest air force in the world.During the trade exhibition, companies in the aviation industry were able to showcase their products in an indoor exhibition area, book hospitality chalets and display their aircraft in a static aircraft park.
The air show was open to the public and offered members of the general public the opportunity to view international aircraft.
During the last AAD in 2016,we saw 12 National pavilions,75 Official delegations from 37 countries,532 Exhibitors from 34 countries,33 862 Trade visitors from105 countries,56 924 general public visitors,444 accredited local and international media,146 military and civilian aircraft and 24 978 Exhibition space.
We were welcomed by Mr. Leon Dillman, CEO of CAASA The Commercial Aviation Association Of South Africa.The Youth Development Programme (YDP) forms an integral component of the Africa Aerospace and Defence Show, this years show promises to include the youth and provide as much needed information for them to have a career in the defence industry.
The Chief of the South African Airforce Lt Gen “Zakes” Fabian Zimpande Msimang Keynote Address on the occasion of AAD 2018 100 days countdown:
A UAV quadcopter made a brief appearance in the media room to welcome us with a 100 day countdown message!
The Chief of Staff from the Ministry of Defence and your counterpart from the Mayors Office in the city of Tshwane;Admirals and Generals from the SANDF;Senor Officers;Chairperson of AAD 2018 Policy Committee and senior representatives from the AAD partnership; Executives and Senior Managers from the SA Government in general as well as the Gauteng Province and the City of Tshwane in particular as our host Province and City respectively; Member’s of the Diplomatic Community should any be in attendance here today; Captains of Industry; Member’s of the Media; Ladies and Gentleman…
On behalf of our Minister of Defence and Military Veterans-Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula- who is also the Chief patron for AAD;as well as on behalf of Gen Silly Shoke the CSANDF and custodian of AAD in the SANDF and whom I am effectively representing here today-I greet you and welcome you.
A special word of welcome goes to our guests of honour ,our exhibitors,sponsors as well as other key role-players and Partners on whose invaluable support we depend to make AAD a success especially SAA as our Official Carrier,The Gauteng development Agency-GGDA as well as Gautrain.
The number 100 has taken on a renewed significance for AAD. Not only has our CiC and President of the country recently completed his 100 days in the high office but today we are exactly 100 days from this seminal and 10th instalment of this global show piece and we do so in a year when our nation is celebrating the Centenary for our founding President and CiC.
It is now a matter of record, that AAD 2016 was a resounding success. Otherwise we would not be here launching the shows 10th instalment as scheduled for the 19th to the 23rd of September 2018 and I declare that WE ARE READY!!!
This years theme is “Unlocking Africa’s Aerospace and Defence Potential”. As already mentioned, this 10th edition of AAD takes place against the backdrop of the Nelson Mandela Centenary Celebrations. The SANDF is deeply honoured to remember Nelson Mandela as its founding Commander-in-Chief and continues to be inspired by his values and vision for a Defence Force that symbolizes unity and service to all our people. It is with this in mind that we have decided that, for the duration of AAD2018 expo, Hangar 1 at Waterkloof Airforce Base will be renamed ‘Madiba Hangar’ in honour of the first Commander in Chief.
Though hosted in our beautiful capital city ,AAD is not just a South African event but a continental spectacle as well as a premier global exhibition. The Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo represents the collective aspirations of our African people.The AAD demonstrates that Africans can be masters of their own density by creating the capability for defending themselves.It also showcases Africa’s defence industrial capability which is an integral part of any country’s ability to defend its sovereignty. At AAD 2016 the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula highlighted the global challenges that we,as democratic South Africa and a leading player in the various multilateral organisations, cannot afford to ignore. Today, I would like to add the regional challenges in the form of conflicts and the twin scourges of piracy and rhino poaching.
In collaboration with our partners on the Continent, we stand ready to face these challenges in the interest of peace and security. without this collaboration our beloved continent would never realise the much-needed socio-economic development that is key to strengthening democracy on the Continent.
We are all aware of the growing cyber-threat world wide that poses a risk to all countries. It is paramount that efficient, powerful and cost effective cyber defence and cyber security solutions are implemented to protect the critical information infrastructure. During AAD2018 a work session is planned to specifically address cyber security and all exhibitors operating inn this environment are invited to be part of and share best practices and innovations.
In context of the above, AAD is not only a national and continental assets AAD is also the means and the platform for sourcing the latest technologies, equipment, services and solutions whilst availing and exposing the to our partners. This ensures we are collectively enabled and empowered to co-operate and complement each otter’s efforts in addressing the challenges as and when the arise. It is for this reason that we will continue to support and host this exhibition and to grow it into a bigger and better show well into the future.
Another important element to this years edition is the transformational part of AAD which has partnered with tow small travel agencies as part of the development of Small Micro-Medium Enterprises. Wayam Travel and Seesa Destination Network are now the official travel partners to AAD 2018.
It is therefore, my honour to officiate at this countdown to AAD 2018. I invite all of you, in your various capacities to engage with the relevant nodal points within the AAD partnership and defence establishment.
I look forward to meeting you all of you at AAD 2018 and make tie to explore and experience our beautiful City of Tshwane as you enjoy this renowned premier defence exhibition
I Thank you and see you at AAD 2018!
Just before the end of the media Launch, The Gen. Msimang mentioned that many foreign International aircraft have been confirmed already for the show, we will announce the aircraft as soon as we know. AAD 2018 will showcase Africa’s largest Airshow, static display and live demonstrations. We were then treated to refreshments before departing AFB Waterkloof, keep your eyes on Aviation Central for more updates on AAD 2018.
Air Total Newcastle Airshow 2018
The 8th annual Newcastle Airshow, the only show in Kwazulu-Natal took place on the 2 June 2018 at the Newcastle Airport on the outskirts of the town of Newcastle. With this show being the only show on the circuit in KZN, members of the public traveled far and wide to the norther KZN town of Newcastle to witness the ever vibrant Airshow. This years theme was ‘Give your dreams some Wings’.
Show day saw some early morning mist around the skies of Newcastle,but didn’t last long due to the sun creeping through the hills in the distance,some early morning arrivals from display aircraft from Gauteng and other parts of the country was a welcome sight like every other airshow as the excitement cannot be hidden before the start of an Airshow.An Aviation Career expo was held in the morning before the days proceedings took place.Other talks from pilots took place during the day.
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The show started with a Para drop from SANDF and Golden Eagles parachutists from a 15 Squadron Oryx helicopter flown by Altaaf Sheik, Warren Jobe and flight engineer Lazola Vumazonke,once the last skydiver had landed safely the Oryx crew then began giving flips to the youth who have never flown in a aircraft ever.The Aerobatics Unlimited L29 ZU-AUX flown by Glen’Gringo’ Warden showed off the eastern block aircraft the to crowds who love seeing a jet in the sky especially in Newcastle.Major Lee-Roy ‘Shinobi’ Goosen and Lt Col Johannes ‘Boerboel ‘Mashaba flew the JAS39D Gripen all the way from Air force Base Makhado in the Limpopo province ,this was the 2nd time the Gripen has flown at Newcastle,the last time was in 2012.The frontline fighter was put through its paces before its final maneuver ,a ‘Upper Charlie’ and disappearing into the blue sky.Major Lone Nel was the GLO for the SAAF Aircraft.
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Major Diaan Grobbelaar put the 15 Squadron A109LUH through its paces,one of the great A109 displays one can see at an airshow these days. The Silver Falcons Team 82 with the leadership of Major Omphile Matloane, flew the first official airshow display as team 82 flying out of the Central Flying School of AFB Langebaanweg along the Capes West Coast. Other team member’s consists of Major Bheki Shabangu at the number 2,Major Corne van Deventer and the soloist Major Sivu Tangana. It was great to see how hard the ground crew for the Silver Falcons, they’re are the ones who keep the aircraft maintained at all time. A big salute to all of them!
Radials that were present on the day was Menno Parsons Dc3 flown by Derek Hopkins,a first to see a DC3 at the Newcastle Airshow.The Puma flying Lions flying the T6 Harvard’s led by Captain Scully Levin. Ivan van der Schaar flew his Randolph sponsored Boeing Stearman.
Brian Emmenis from Capital Sounds provided the sound for this Airshow once again.commentary for the day was professional provided by Leon Du Plessis and Brian Emmenis, keeping the public informed of all the aircraft and pilots during the course of the day, and always bringing the vibe to the airshow and getting the public excited for each act during the display slots.
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South Africa’s top aerobatic pilots from the likes of Patrick Davidson flew all the way in from Port Alfred in his RedBull sponsored Sbach 342,a first at Newcastle to have him display at this particular show.He will soon get ready for his next Redbull Air Race series in Russia in August this year. Team Extreme two member’s, Nigel Hopkins flying his Extra330 and Mark’Buggs’Hensman flying Mark Sampson’s yellow Sbach in high energy aerobatic sequences. The Goodyear Eagles Pitts Team flew their three ship display routine under the leadership of Glen Warden, Nigel Hopkins and Jason Beamish flying the other two Pitts.
Neville Ferreira flew his newly painted Slick 540 from Kitty Hawk aerodrome to the East of Pretoria, He then raced a AMG Mercedes later in the day. Matthew Zalewski flew the Magni Gyrocopter, becoming one of the best and only Gyrocopter displays to watch at airshows.
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A big well done to the organizer of this years Newcastle Airshow, from the entire Airshow Committee and Johan Pieters and Christo van der Vyver from Champ Marketing. Johan Neilon, Pete Graham and the ATCs kept the show safe and on time.To all the emergency services that were on standby during the whole day if any incidents had to occur. Thanks to Charlie Hugo for organising the media accreditation and to Capital Sounds for providing commentary and sound during the show, to the South African Air force providing aircraft and promoting and restoring National pride to our country.To all the stakeholders who sponsored the show, this last paragraph is all for the unsung hero’s mentioned above he make these country Airshows possible.We look forward to the 9th edition of the Newcastle Airshow next year.
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