South Africa Seeks Pakistan’s Help Revamping Air Force Training

Looking to modernize its air force training, South Africa has approached Pakistan for assistance. The request highlights potential collaborations between the two nations in defense and technical expertise.

Air Force Chiefs Meet

Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo, head of the South African Air Force (SAAF), recently visited Pakistan to explore potential cooperation. Discussions centered on enhancing SAAF’s training programs, beginning with the academy level. Mbambo expressed a desire for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to support the development of a comprehensive, modern training framework. He met with PAF Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.

Observer Opportunities

Mbambo requested that SAAF officers participate as observers in major PAF operational exercises. The goal is to improve learning and encourage collaboration, according to Pakistan Armed Forces ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations).

Technical Collaboration on the Table

Increased technical collaboration is being explored, particularly regarding aircraft maintenance. Mbambo acknowledged PAF’s “technical excellence and cost-effective maintenance capabilities,” expressing interest in using PAF’s engineering infrastructure to inspect and maintain South Africa’s C-130 fleet, according to ISPR.

Expert Weighs In

Defense and aviation expert Dean Wingrin pointed out that Pakistan operates five older C-130B Hercules transports, similar to those used by the SAAF. The PAF also has nine C-130E and four C-130H aircraft. This commonality could facilitate collaboration.

Praise for PAF

During the meeting on July 2nd, Mbambo commended the PAF’s operational readiness, multi-domain warfare capabilities, and ability to maintain a credible deterrence posture. He also lauded the high standards and technical excellence maintained by the PAF.

Commitment to Partnership

In turn, Sidhu highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Pakistan and South Africa, emphasizing shared values and aspirations. He reiterated the PAF’s commitment to strengthening SAAF’s aerial combat capabilities through tailored training and capacity-building initiatives, as reported by ISPR. According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Pakistan’s military expenditure in 2023 amounted to $10.4 billion, or 3.2% of its GDP SIPRI, 2023.

Past Military Cooperation

Pakistan and South Africa have a history of military engagements. Sidhu visited South Africa in August 2024, and South African Special Forces participated in a counter-terrorism exercise in Pakistan in October. In July 2021, Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, visited Pakistan.

Formal Agreements

South Africa and Pakistan signed a government-to-government defense co-operation agreement in March 2017, which included industrial co-operation. Pakistani military students have attended the Army College in South Africa, and South African officers have received staff college training in Pakistan. Pakistan has also provided special forces training to South African personnel. The SANDF stated that approximately 40 South African commanders received training in Pakistan, including counter-terrorism training, by 2019.