DA urges permanent cancellation of Russian strategic bombers’ tour in line with SA’s non-alignment commitment

30 October 2024

The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the Department of Defence’s announcement postponing the scheduled tour of Russian Blackjack TU-160 supersonic strategic bombers to South Africa, following the bombers' failure to arrive at Waterkloof Military Airport overnight.

The Department’s use of the NATO reporting name "Blackjack" in its media statement, rather than the Russian-preferred "White Swan," is significant, signaling acknowledgment of the bombers’ combat purpose over their cultural symbolism.

During a prior visit to South Africa in March 2019, one of the Blackjacks (Serial No. 82040) was subsequently used to transport missiles to the front in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where they were deployed against Ukrainian civilian areas.

President Ramaphosa must now go beyond a postponement and cancel this tour altogether, aligning with his non-alignment commitments. He should also ensure that the two Russian advance aircraft currently at Waterkloof are sent back without delay.

Issued by Chris Hattingh, DA Spokesperson on Defence and Military Veterans, 30 October 2024