Denel’s skills exodus threatens SA’s defence independence
Denel acknowledged that it had lost a number of engineers, technologists, scientists and technicians
Denel, South Africa's state arms manufacturer, is facing challenges in rebuilding its depleted engineering and technical workforce, which may threaten the country's defence independence. In its 2025/26 annual report to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans, Denel acknowledged the loss of a significant number of engineers, technologists, scientists, and technicians.
The company has started recruiting technical skills in various areas, but the rebuilding process is still underway. The report highlights the evolving threat environment, the need for new products and capabilities, and the need to maintain national security without excessive dependence on foreign suppliers. However, Denel's financial challenges, including an operating loss of R364 million and deteriorating liquidity, further complicate its ability to fulfill its mandate and safeguard South Africa's defence interests.
Brief written by urgent.news from The Citizen's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
