Durban: The South African Navy has announced plans to commence a project for replacing its nearly 40-year-old combat support vessel, SAS Drakensberg. This announcement was made by the SA Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, during the naming and acceptance ceremony of the new multi-purpose inshore patrol vessel (MMIPV), SAS King Shaka Zulu, at the Naval Base Durban.
According to South African Government News Agency, the SAS Drakensberg, which has been inactive at sea for a considerable period, is part of a fleet that historically included a variety of vessel types. These ranged from submarines and offshore patrol vessels to frigates, a combat support vessel, a hydrographic survey vessel, anti-mine warfare vessels (mine hunters), deep diving support, and torpedo recovery vessels. The Navy’s submarines and frigates were replaced about 20 years ago during the Arms Deal, and a new Hydrographic Survey Vessel is currently under construction by Sandock Austral Shipyards in Durban.
The three new MMIPVs will assume roles previously held by older vessels, including mine hunting, deep diving support, torpedo recovery, and some patrol duties. Project Motso is underway to containerize the anti-mine warfare capability, which is crucial for maritime security and economic protection, especially considering the potential impact of sea mines on ports like Durban.
Lobese emphasized the need for maritime security and economic protection, advocating for the procurement of an additional 12 ships, including six larger offshore patrol vessels. This expansion, he argues, is a rational choice considering the long-term benefits of safeguarding marine resources and combating criminality at sea.
The SAS Drakensberg, launched in April 1986 and commissioned in November the following year, holds the distinction of being the largest ship built in South Africa and the first naval vessel fully designed within the country. With a full load displacement of 12,500 tons and a length of 147 meters, it has the capacity to carry significant amounts of fuel, ammunition, dry stores, and fresh water. The vessel also accommodates two Oryx helicopters, two landing craft, and two RHIBs. Its role extended beyond replenishment, including anti-piracy patrols in the Mozambique Channel as part of Operation Copper, notably aiding in the capture of Somali pirates in April 2012.