In 2025, South Africa remains one of the few African countries with a well-equipped, locally developed military arsenal. Thanks to strong defense engineering and manufacturing (led by Denel and Armscor), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uses cutting-edge land vehicles, air defense systems, naval warships, and surveillance tech.

This guide gives you a full breakdown of the key military equipment used by South Africa across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

South African Army Equipment (Land Systems)

Badger Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV)

• 8×8 modular combat vehicle built to replace the old Ratel fleet.

• Comes in variants like mortar carrier, fire support, and command post.

• Locally made under Project Hoefyster by Denel.

G6 Rhino & T5-52 Howitzers

• G6 Rhino: 155mm self-propelled howitzer with over 40km range.

• T5-52: Truck-mounted artillery with higher mobility and rapid fire support.

Rocket Launchers

• Includes the Valkiri MLRS and Bateleur systems.

• Both are multi-barrel launchers with ranges up to 40km.

G5 Towed Artillery

• Long-range 155mm gun with deadly precision.

• Designed for counter-battery fire and heavy battlefield support.

Tactical & Special Forces Vehicles

• Light armored 4×4s like Casspir and RG-31, ideal for mine resistance.

• Modified Land Cruisers equipped with heavy machine guns and auto-cannons.

Infantry Weapons

• Standard rifles: R4 and R5 (locally developed).

• Special Forces use CZ Bren 2 rifles, Negev LMGs, and anti-material rifles.

South African Air Force (SAAF) Equipment

Gripen Fighter Jets

• South Africa flies the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, a 4.5-gen multirole fighter.

• Used for air superiority, reconnaissance, and tactical bombing.

Rooivalk Attack Helicopter

• Built in South Africa.

• Equipped with air-to-ground missiles, 20mm cannons, and rocket pods.

• Supports counter-insurgency and offensive strike roles.

Oryx Utility Helicopters

• Medium-lift helicopter used for troop transport, medevac, and supply drops.

• Can also be fitted with light weapons for support missions.

Milkor 380 UAV (Drone)

• Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone.

• Up to 35 hours flight time with advanced surveillance equipment.

Mokopa Anti-Tank Missile

• Laser-guided air-to-ground missile with 10km range.

• Can be launched from helicopters, drones, or vehicles.

South African Navy (Naval Fleet)

Valour-Class Frigates

• Stealth frigates equipped with surface-to-air missiles, guns, and sonar.

• Can carry helicopters and perform anti-submarine and patrol duties.

Heroine-Class Submarines

• Diesel-electric submarines used for underwater surveillance and warfare.

• 3 active subs equipped with torpedoes and sonar.

Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPV)

• Used for search and rescue, anti-piracy, and border patrol.

• Part of South Africa’s maritime safety and coastal defense.

Auxiliary Ships & Mine Sweepers

• Support ships used in humanitarian and logistical operations.

South African Military Technology Highlights

Final Thoughts: Is South Africa Well Armed?

Yes. Despite budget challenges, South Africa in 2025 still operates one of the most advanced defense arsenals in Africa, especially with homegrown weapons and vehicles.

From high-performance jets and smart drones to stealthy warships and mobile artillery, SANDF has what it takes to defend its borders, support UN peacekeeping, and maintain internal security.

However, maintenance and readiness of these assets remain ongoing challenges, due to fluctuating defense spending.