Serious concerns have been raised over the operational readiness of Waterkloof Air Force Base, with more than 150 vehicles reportedly out of service and questions surrounding the security of some weapon storage facilities.
The base's operational readiness has been classified as very high risk, raising concerns about the South African Air Force's ability to respond effectively to a crisis.
The South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) says the challenges at Waterkloof are symptomatic of a broader decline in South Africa's air-combat capabilities.
Ricardo Teixeira of the institute says inadequate funding, limited fuel supplies, maintenance challenges and insufficient flying hours are affecting pilot training and readiness.
“Flying a plane is not like riding a bicycle,” Teixeira said.
He explained that pilots require regular flying time to maintain their skills and remain operationally current. However, a lack of maintenance contracts and aircraft availability is limiting opportunities for pilots to train consistently.
Concerns over combat capability
The institute has also raised concerns about the availability of ammunition for some of the Air Force's combat aircraft, including the Rooivalk attack helicopter and Gripen fighter jets.
Teixeira says the lack of necessary munitions could prevent some aircraft from operating at their full combat capability.
He described the situation as particularly concerning for fighter aircraft, saying that without air-to-air missiles, pilots could potentially be forced to rely on aircraft guns at extremely close range.
Teixeira further claimed that the Rooivalk is currently “not combat capable”, highlighting what the institute regards as serious deficiencies in the country's military aviation capacity.
The concerns extend beyond the condition of a single airbase.
The SAIRR says the reported deterioration in the Air Force's capabilities raises broader questions about South Africa's ability to protect its airspace and respond to potential national security threats.
The warning comes amid ongoing concerns over funding, maintenance and equipment shortages affecting the country's broader defence capabilities.