The SAAF Forum

It is with interest that I note an advertisement on page 31 of the September issue of SA Soldier for this vessel, complete with partial SA flag and French website.

I'm confused as to why this advertisement would feature in this magazine especially with the SA'n "flavour". does anyone know of any further developments regarding SA's rumoured intent to purchase vessels of this type?

Ryan

Hi Ryan

Standard marketing ploy. Get an artist's impression as to how the vessel will look with your country's flag on it so you will be impressed!!

It is certainly on the cards, with the project already having been registered.

Maybe they'll let me drive her

A

Hi Flighdeck

Noted your comments regarding Ryan's question about the SANDF acquiring the Mistral, seems that its on its way in 3-5 years - just wonder if the organisation realises the human resources required to man such a vessel.

DC

DC, could I take that as confirmation that the SAN are going with the Mistral class?

Nope, you can't take it is read. There is still a long way to go on this project, as a design has not even been selected to the best of my knowledge.

A

I dont know why they would want them. We havent got nearly enough choppers for those! We're better off buying a couple of San Antonio Class type ones.

Anyone heard any more news on this idea? I read in another forum the Canberra Class and Juan Carlos 1 was also considered? I think they would be a better choice than the Mistral Class too.

The SAN is going to need a few Marines too. A ship like this is not just for delivering milk & cookies.

Heard the other day that the Navy was still interested in this class of ship (with the Mistral Class being favoured), but that no decision or budget had been decided.

I reckon this will be a more medium- to long-term acquisition.

Thanks Dean and im sure it will be considering the price of those things.

I just dont know why they wouldnt get the builders of the Frigates to just build one the size of the Mistral Class which means it would look more like a San Antonio CLass Type LPD. Don't see the need for such a big Flight Deck and its not like we'll ever have VSTOL aircraft.