South Africa's grounded fleet: Only 2 out of 26 fighter jets fly
South Africa's fighter jets are in a dire condition. According to local press reports, out of 26 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, only two are currently capable of flying.
What do you need to know?
- Republic of South Africa purchased 26 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, but only 2 of them are currently flight-capable.
- Financial problems and the decision to self-service the aircraft without the manufacturer's support have contributed to the current state of the fleet.
- Aviation collapse affects not only the Gripens but also other aircraft, including attack helicopters and training-combat aircraft.
Why are only 2 Gripens capable of flight?
The Republic of South Africa was one of the first countries to purchase JAS 39 Gripen fighters from Sweden. According to News24, only two of the 26 acquired planes can currently take to the skies.
The decision to purchase Swedish aircraft was made back in 1999, resulting in 26 units. Authorities decided to maintain and service the Gripens independently, which turned out to be the wrong decision. The Swedes warned at that time that routine maintenance alone would not be sufficient to keep modern aircraft operational in the long term—and they were correct. The task indeed exceeded local capabilities.
What are the consequences for South Africa's aviation?
Budget cuts have contributed to the collapse of aviation, ultimately leading to the downfall of this branch of the armed forces. Out of the 330 units that South Africa's air force formally possesses, only six are able to take to the air, according to information from News24. South Africa also has British Hawk fighters, but only three out of 24 are ready to fly.
The situation is equally dire for the helicopter fleet. None of the 11 Rooivalk attack helicopters are fit to fly, and out of 39 Oryx helicopters, only one is flight-capable.
