Article

South Africa's Navy struggles with extensive responsibilities and insufficient funding, undermining its ability to protect maritime interests and meet obligations. The fleet is small, ageing, and lacks surveillance capabilities, leading to gaps in policing waters and responding to illegal activities.

Despite being a maritime state, the Navy's focus remains on land-based threats. The current naval inventory reflects outdated strategic decisions, with a pressing need for investment in patrol vessels, surveillance, and support ships to enhance operational effectiveness and maritime security.