Article

The South African Navy is facing significant challenges due to a mismatch between its extensive responsibilities and inadequate funding. With over 90% of trade reliant on maritime routes, the Navy's limited capabilities hinder its ability to protect economic interests and enforce laws in its territorial waters.

The fleet comprises ageing Valour-class frigates and Heroine-class submarines, which are underfunded and not operationally available. The Navy lacks patrol vessels and aerial surveillance, resulting in inefficiencies in monitoring illegal fishing and smuggling.

The absence of reliable support ships further compounds operational limitations. Experts suggest that to ensure maritime security and address economic vulnerabilities, South Africa needs to prioritize funding for the Navy over the Army.