SANDF participation in The Rand Easter Show

The Rand Easter Show 2018 was once again held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre Nasrec just South of Johannesburg. The South African National Defence Force was again on display with static exhibits and a capability demonstration as well as other arena show acts by the SANDF The massive SANDF display made up of the different assets the defence force has on strength from the SA ARMY, SAAF, SA NAVY and SA MILITARY HEALTH SERVICES. The public were able to meet and greet the men and women in uniform to explore and learn more about what the Defence Forces role in South Africa.

The SANDF display was officially opened by the Chief of Joint Operations, representing Defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, he mentioned the Department of Defence and the SANDF are excited to be part of the 124 year old crowd pulling consumer carnival. The opening of the event saw a flag fly past by two Agusta A109LUHs helicopters.

The SANDF thrilled the crowds with the high impact capability demonstration was a major hit with the crowds, The South African Air force showcased their hardware from two Agusta A109LUHs,An Oryx Medium Transport Helicopter and two 16 Squadron Rooivalk attack helicopters, one flying and one static.

Simulated airstrikes were tasked by two 2 Squadron Gripens operating out of their home base at AFB Makhado in the Limpopo Province. Parachutists were dropped from a 44 Squadron Casa 212 operating out of AFB Waterkloof.

During the course of the battle simulation two Ratel armoured vehicles shot blank explosives as well as the engineers put on a show of pyrotechnics. At the end of the demo the crowds were treated to a mass helicopter fly-past from the SAAF choppers.

Later in the day Major Sivu Tangana, Silver Falcon Member gave a spirited solo display in a Pilatus PC7 MKII.

Tens of thousands of Rand Show visitors annually rate the massive SANDF static display, explosive capability demonstration and entertaining arena programme a highlight of their visit to the Rand Show