The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has dismissed media reports alleging that its Oryx helicopters were abandoned in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), saying all aircraft remain accounted for and maintained according to safety standards.
In a statement, SANDF clarified that of the three helicopters referenced in the media reports, only one sustained damage during United Nations peacekeeping operations in 2024 and is scheduled for repairs. The remaining aircraft are fully operational and under SANDF control.
“The SANDF reaffirms that all its Oryx helicopters are being maintained in accordance with technical and safety requirements,” the statement read, pushing back against speculation that equipment had been left behind during the force’s withdrawal from the eastern DRC.
The clarification comes as SANDF concludes its phased exit from the DRC where it had been deployed under the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).
The mission, launched to support peace efforts in conflict-ridden provinces, officially began winding down in March following a directive from the SADC Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government.
In a media briefing in May, South Africa’s Defence Minister Angie Motshekga said the withdrawal is part of a structured transition from military engagement to diplomatic and political solutions.
The SANDF’s presence in the DRC had come under scrutiny following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers in January during clashes with the M23 rebel group near Goma.
JN/APA