The South African Air Force (SAAF) is in critical condition, according to information from the country's Ministry of Defense. The ministry states that 85% of SAAF aircraft are unable to fly. The situation is a reflection of a serious crisis, which placed the air force, almost entirely, on the ground. 

Answering a question from parliamentarian Kobus Marais, from the liberal Democratic Alliance (AD) party, Defense Minister Thandi Modise revealed the sad conditions of the SAAF. The organization, which was once among the most modern on the African continent, only has 15% of its fleet in minimum operating conditions, leaving the nation vulnerable to external threats. 

The numbers are alarming. Of the SAAF's 388 aircraft: 

• 188 are completely grounded and/or out of service
• 60 large maintenance services
• 3 were written off due to end of useful life 
• 27 awaiting repairs
• 6 are currently under repair

Also according to the document, just two of the 26 Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighters are in flying condition. Of the 24 BAe Hawk jets, only three are operational. The Gripens fleet returned to activities in the past, After spending more than a year completely shut down due to lack of maintenance, however, the latest figures are not an optimistic outlook for the SAAF. 

Thus, 53% of the fleet, 233 aircraft including freighters, fighters, trainers and helicopters are inoperative due to a lack of spare parts and budget restrictions, which prevent necessary maintenance, denounces the political party.

The group, which opposes the current government, mismanagement, lack of political will and negligence have seriously compromised the combat capabilities of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF), further stating that the armed forces' very low readiness has become in a national crisis.

“It is particularly distressing to note that SAAF combat aircraft, including the Oryx attack helicopter, Rooivalk, the BK 117 helicopter and the LUH 109, are among the most affected in terms of active service,” said Kobus Marais. 

Finally, the AD demanded immediate actions from the current management, seeking to restore the operational conditions of the SAAF and the sovereignty of South African airspace and defense.