S A DEFENCE BUDGET

South Africa's defence budget has seen changes over the past few years, hitting $3. 00 billion in 2022, which was an 11. 74% decrease from the prior year. In 2023, the budget continued to drop to $2. 781 billion. These reductions were influenced by various factors, particularly the coronavirus pandemic, which led to funding being redirected towards health and relief efforts. Despite these cuts, South Africa's arms industry is still among the most advanced in the non-Western world and is capable of producing sophisticated military equipment. The budget will also support military deployments in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of promoting regional peace.

Minister Angie Motshekga highlighted the involvement of the SANDF in several operations, including Operation MISTRAL and Operation THIBA in the DRC, and Operation VIKELA in Mozambique. Funding has been provided to assist these external deployments. The Ministry is also addressing financial challenges by improving governance and financial systems. For the financial year 2024/25, the Department of Defence has been allocated R51. 8 billion, with significant portions earmarked for various costs, including obligations to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Armscor for defence procurement, and for personnel equipment and maintenance.

There is also a focus on enhancing the capabilities of the defense force by adjusting to changing battlefield technologies and prioritizing protective personnel vehicles. Additional funding has been allocated for the repair and maintenance of naval defence systems. The SANDF has ongoing issues related to meeting operational targets, such as maritime and air patrol hours and maintaining serviceable equipment due to budget constraints.

The SANDF is not only an expense but also generates income from peace support services to the United Nations and the sale of old equipment, contributing R745 million to the National Treasury. However, the total expenditure is still a concern, as it exceeds the adjusted appropriation, and the budget for 2024/25 has increased to accommodate factors like the public sector wage agreement. The limited budget impacts the SANDF's operational effectiveness and may jeopardize ongoing missions.

Criticism from defence experts highlights that the current defence spending of about 0. 7% of GDP is below the global norm and could compromise South Africa’s ability to conduct military operations effectively, particularly in the DRC and Mozambique. Adjustments are being made to manage personnel costs and equipment maintenance while enhancing the use of technology for operational efficiency.

The Department of Defence is also committed to securing South Africa’s borders and supporting the police. The budget outlines funds allocated for the acquisition of vehicles and technology to strengthen border security. Yet, limited resources affect the SANDF’s readiness to respond effectively to both external and internal security challenges.

In support of regional stability, additional deployments to the DRC and Mozambique are planned, with projected costs. Concerns remain about the funding allocated for air support operations, which may not meet the necessary requirements.

The South African defence industry is predominantly export-oriented, with over 80% of its output sold internationally, and it employs around 20,000 people directly. The industry is recognized for its capabilities across various domains, and the local manufacturing sector relies heavily on adequate support to maintain its capabilities. The importance of these industries is noted in terms of national strategic independence and the potential economic impact they provide.

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