The absence of Flight Engineers (FEs) has significantly hampered the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) ability to operate vital aircraft during recent floods in Mthatha, as heavy rains and snow battered the Eastern Cape.

Most notably, the SANDF’s Oryx AS32 helicopter – a medium utility aircraft essential for rescue missions – was not deployed during the flooding, primarily due to a shortage of Flight Engineers.

At least 90 people, including numerous schoolchildren, have lost their lives in the devastating floods that swept through South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

The SANDF plays a crucial role in disaster management, providing rapid response and relief in the aftermath of natural disasters such as floods, storms, and earthquakes. 

Internal sources indicate that the Air Force’s capacity to conduct rescue operations effectively has been compromised by a shortage of flight engineers.

“We all know that the Eastern Cape has been struggling with these floods, but there was no action from the SANDF”, the source said. 

“One glaring issue was the absence of SANDF personnel during the crisis – despite the tragedy, there was little visible military presence.

“As it stands, we can’t even defend ourselves properly without trained engineers. We must actively engage in disaster preparedness and response, but our defence is now vulnerable.”

IOL contacted the SANDF for comment last week but received no response regarding the current deficit of Flight Engineers or the Air Force’s rescue capabilities in Mthatha.

The publication also contacted Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane to inquire about the province’s emergency preparedness plan and its implementation during the disaster. 

Despite several follow-ups, no reply was received.

On Sunday, the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier issued an update on flood relief efforts. 

It confirmed that the provincial government continues to provide emergency support to thousands displaced by the floods in the OR Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities.

“Temporary shelters have been established, and essential needs such as meals, clothing, and hygiene items are being distributed to affected families,” the statement read.

The Premier’s office also announced that, in remembrance of those who lost their lives, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government will hold a Provincial Day of Mourning on Thursday, 19 June 2025, in Decoligny Village, Mthatha.

Historically, the Eastern Cape has faced severe flooding, including significant events in June 2023 that caused widespread damage and fatalities. 

Experts attribute the increasing severity and frequency of storms and floods in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape to climate change and environmental mismanagement.

A 2022 report by Reuters, citing data from the World Weather Attribution group, highlighted that extreme rainfall events like the 2022 floods are now expected roughly once every 20 years, twice as often as before the late 1800s when such events were estimated to occur every 40 years. 

The report indicated that human-caused global warming has significantly increased the frequency of these extreme weather events.

SANDF spokesperson Prince Tshabalala acknowledged the critical shortage of Flight Engineers earlier this month.

“Flight Engineers are a vital part of our aircrew. Critical missions cannot be fully executed without them, impacting our operational readiness. 

“Currently, the SANDF operates at approximately 40% capacity, but once the budgeting process is complete, we will address these operational requirements.”

On Friday, the Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD) issued an urgent call for decisive governance intervention following the release of the ARMSCOR Report tabled before Parliament on 13 June 2025. 

The report, presented by ARMSCOR CEO Solomzi Mbada, revealed systemic failures within the procurement system, exposing the SANDF to significant operational and financial risks.

“These failures, if left unaddressed, will severely undermine the SANDF’s constitutional mandate to defend and protect South Africa, its territorial integrity, and its people,” said Malusi Gigaba, Co-Chair of the JSCD.

The report on Navy Fleet Readiness indicated that R93 million had been allocated for the refit of South African Navy surface ships and submarines. 

Despite a workforce of 384 personnel, including 236 technical staff and 43 apprentices, the SAS Isandlwana refit has repeatedly missed critical milestones.

“Only 54% of the 1,000 job cards are projected to be completed by August 2025, with significant cost overruns anticipated,” Gigaba stated.

Regarding helicopter fleet shortfalls, the committee reported that ARMSCOR explained an R2 billion shortfall for the Rooivalk Combat Support fleet, which will directly impact the SANDF’s ability to deploy troops and respond to emergencies like the recent floods in the Eastern Cape.

Gigaba described the situation as a “horror,” noting that these issues fundamentally undermine the 2015 Defence Review and the Defence White Paper.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

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