Defence Union Slams SANDF Deployment: Poor Equipment Blamed After Soldier Deaths in the DRC

Defence Union Slams SANDF Deployment

The tragic loss of nine South African soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has brought the glaring inadequacies of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) into sharp focus. Experts, military analysts, and critics have reiterated longstanding concerns about underfunding, lack of proper equipment, and poor strategic planning within the SANDF. The deaths, occurring in intense fighting against the M23 rebel group, mark one of the most significant losses for South Africa’s military since the Battle of Bangui in 2013, where 15 soldiers were killed.

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A Grim Reflection: Lessons Unlearned

The Eastern DRC has long been a volatile region, plagued by insurgencies and clashes between various rebel groups and national armies. The recent casualties have reignited debates about the SANDF’s preparedness and resource allocation, or lack thereof. According to Pikkie Greeff, the national secretary of the South African Defence Union (Sandu), the government has failed to learn from past incidents, such as Bangui.

“Defence analysts and experts identified problems, such as the lack of proper equipment and support, even after troops requested it in advance,” said Greeff. Despite numerous studies and reports highlighting these issues, the SANDF continues to deploy troops without adequate preparation, resulting in unnecessary loss of life.

Key Challenges for SANDF Troops in the DRC

Lack of Air Support

The withdrawal of Rooivalk helicopters from the region has left SANDF troops vulnerable. These attack helicopters were instrumental in neutralizing threats posed by the M23 rebels in previous operations. Without them, the rebels have reorganized and regained strength, posing a significant threat to peacekeeping forces.

Chris Hattingh, the DA’s spokesperson on defence, pointed out that the SANDF’s reliance on the limited and aging Oryx helicopter fleet is insufficient for the demands of such a high-risk mission. The absence of functional transport aircraft, such as the C-130, has forced the SANDF to rely on expensive private operators for logistical support.

Inferior Equipment and Ammunition

The M23 rebels, reportedly supported by external forces such as the Rwandan Defence Force, have access to sophisticated weaponry, including drones. By contrast, SANDF troops face severe shortages in basic protective measures such as sandbags, engineering equipment, and high-grade ammunition.

“We are not fighting on equal terms,” Hattingh noted. “The sandbags meant to protect our soldiers are empty. The rebels use drones, but we have no drone capacity.”

Medical and Logistical Deficiencies

One of the most damning critiques has been the lack of rapid extraction and medical capabilities. Greeff emphasized that South Africa lacks the capacity to evacuate wounded soldiers quickly from conflict zones. Even with adequate resources, the extraction of over 2,000 troops from a battle zone would take weeks, a logistical nightmare in a hostile environment.

Budget Cuts: A Crippling Blow

Over the past decade, budget cuts have eroded the SANDF’s capabilities, leaving it ill-equipped to handle modern warfare challenges. Currently, South Africa’s defence budget accounts for just 0.7% of GDP, a figure that Hattingh described as unsustainable.

The reduction in funding has resulted in:

• Deteriorating Equipment: Maintenance contracts have been canceled, and no new equipment has been procured.
• Reduced Operational Readiness: With limited resources, the SANDF is forced to operate with outdated technology and inadequate supplies.

Echoes of Sake and Beyond

The SANDF’s struggles in the DRC are not isolated incidents. In June 2023, a mortar attack on a South African base in Sake resulted in two fatalities and 20 injuries. These recurring tragedies highlight systemic issues that extend beyond budget constraints to include poor planning and oversight.

Greeff stressed that deploying troops on high-risk missions without proper resources is both unethical and reckless. “We were clear from the start that no deployment should take place unless our personnel are properly resourced and supported,” he said.

Political Fallout and Calls for Accountability

The recent deaths have sparked a political firestorm in South Africa. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have called for President Cyril Ramaphosa and Defence Minister Angie Motshekga to be held accountable. Critics have lambasted Ramaphosa for prioritizing his attendance at the World Economic Forum over addressing the nation’s grief.

Motshekga’s response has also come under fire. Her delayed public statements and alleged incompetence have fueled calls for her resignation. While her spokesperson, Onicca Kwakwa, stated that the minister was preparing to brief the president on her visit to the DRC, public confidence in her leadership has been significantly eroded.

The Need for Reform

The SANDF’s challenges are symptomatic of deeper structural issues within South Africa’s defence framework. Experts and analysts have proposed several reforms to address these challenges:

1. Increased Defence Budget: Allocating a higher percentage of GDP to defence is critical for modernizing equipment and improving operational readiness.
2. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with international allies to secure funding, training, and advanced technology can enhance the SANDF’s capabilities.
3. Enhanced Accountability: Transparent decision-making and stricter oversight are essential to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
4. Investment in Technology: Deploying modern tools such as drones and advanced surveillance systems can level the playing field against well-equipped adversaries.

A Call to Action

The tragic loss of nine soldiers in the DRC serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of inadequate planning and resources. South Africa’s commitment to peacekeeping missions must be matched by a commitment to the safety and effectiveness of its troops.

Failure to address these issues not only undermines the SANDF’s credibility but also jeopardizes the lives of the brave men and women who serve their country. As South Africa mourns its fallen heroes, the time for action is now. Structural reforms, increased funding, and strategic foresight are imperative to ensure that such tragedies are never repeated.