Operational readiness demonstrated at Roodewal Bombing Range

A spectacular display of airpower, including aircraft such as the Impala, Cheetah, Rooivalk, Oryx, Alouette, Caravan, Casa and C130 Hercules, was showcased at the Roodewal Bombing Range near AFB Makhado on 22 April 2005.

The South African Air Force’s operational readiness and capabilities in laser-guided precision attacks, low-level reconnaissance, combat search and rescue, dive-bombing and various other airlift and shooting exercises were demonstrated in a typical wartime scenario during this event.

In a media conference the Chief of the Air Force, Lt Gen Gagiano, emphasised the importance of having a tactical air force that is able and willing to deploy on the continent and beyond in support of government initiatives.

He also spoke about various other issues such as the reconstruction of the runway and taxiways at AFB Waterkloof, the SAAF’s strategic defence packages and cooperation among SADC Air Forces.

The only hiccup of the day came when a Dakota with twenty-six journalists on board damaged its wing after a refueling stop at AFB Makhado. A Board of enquiry has been convened to investigate this incident.

Alternative transportation to Pretoria had to be arranged for the journalists. Fortunately no one was hurt during the incident.

By Maryke Lynn
Journalist, AD ASTRA magazine