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Yes, you read that correctly, the establishment of a dedicated Space Command Section within the South African Air Force (SAAF) is gaining good momentum. And it’s probably not a bad thing.

Chief of the South African Air Force, Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo, announced the establishment of the South African Space Command Section (SASCS) during an Air and Space Power Symposium in September 2022, and according to those in the know, progress is being made.

Our own version of the ‘Space Force’ will manage and coordinate all defence-related space activities in collaboration with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and other government agencies.

Air and space power are relevant in the SA National Defence Force’s (SANDF’s) journey to greatness and the Fourth Industrial Revolution does not favour slow pace and lengthy procrastination.

Speaking at a Commission and Wings Insignia Parade at Air Force Base (AFB) Langebaanweg outside Cape Town on Wednesday 21 June, Mbambo insisted that South Africa is well known for its ‘ability to detect, identify, and respond to airborne threats, such as aircraft, missiles, and drones.’

The increasing role of space in modern warfare led the SANDF to really put our money where their mouth is by establishing the Space Command.

The creation of the SASCS signifies a significant development for South Africa, indicating the nation’s renewed interest in space exploration and technology. Beyond defence applications, this development promises positive impacts on various sectors, including telecommunications, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

The Space Command Integrated Planning Team (SCIPT) has been working closely with local and foreign partners to ensure the ‘implementation of the national space strategy.’

According to Defenceweb, Mbambo says that the ‘SAAF remains steadfast in its commitment to inspire and educate future generations of aviators and space explorers through its ambitious space programme.’

Now before everyone begins salivating over X-Wing tenders, the SAAF Space Command seems more of a ‘watching’  vibe than a ‘fighting’ one. Either way, it’s a good idea to keep one eye on the skies with all the aliens and wars and whatnot.

If anyone does decide to invade Mzansi in the meantime, the taxis and gangs will deal with them. They’re about the only national assets that fly and fight these days.

[source:defenceweb]