South African troops help to enforce COVID-19 lockdown
South Africa has deployed an additional 73,000 troops to help the South Africa Police Service (SAPS) enforce a nationwide coronavirus lockdown.
President Cyril Ramaphosa had told parliament in March that just 2,800 soldiers would be required to help maintain law and order until 26 June.
The surge in requirements for military support will cost an extra R4.5 million ($240,000).
At least 58 deaths due to COVID-19 in South Africa have been confirmed with more than 2,352 active cases.
The financial impact of coronavirus in the country has increased the likelihood of civil unrest as the country faces significant job losses, reduced salaries and food insecurity.
More from Defence Notes
-
![Taiwan approved for purchase of $11 billion in weapons from US]()
Taiwan approved for purchase of $11 billion in weapons from US
The US State Department’s approval of a multi-billion-dollar sale of weapons to Taiwan includes tactical mission networks equipment, uncrewed aerial systems, artillery rocket systems and self-propelled howitzers as well as anti-tank guided missiles.
-
![US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry]()
US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry
The 2025 NSS has emphasised investment in the US nuclear and air defence inventory and national industry, but it leaves multiple unanswered questions on how the White House will implement this approach.
-
![Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners]()
Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners
While non-EU UK struggles to join the Security Action for Europe initiative, which provides loans for defence programmes, Canada has become the first country outside Europe to get access – and did so for a nominal fee.
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
