The South African Navy's combat support and replenishment vessel, the SAS Drakensberg (A301), is scheduled to visit Cuba and South America by the end of 2024. The South African government, via Defence Web, announced that this visit is part of their efforts to increase naval presence in the Atlantic.
Vice Admiral Monde Lobese confirmed that the Drakensberg, known colloquially as "Drakies" or "DKB," will participate in exercises in Brazil aligned with the BRICS+ initiative, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. This voyage aims to strengthen military ties with Cuba.
The Drakensberg's journey will span nearly 4,200 nautical miles to Brazil and an additional 2,600 nautical miles to Cuba. Lobese did not specify the exact dates for these transits. Concerns have been raised about the availability of parts for the vessel, as the Armscor tender for spares has yet to be addressed.
The Drakensberg, capable of carrying 12,500 tons of total cargo, has been operational intermittently since 2019, undertaking missions for replenishment, anti-piracy patrols, and disaster relief operations.
Recent Geopolitical Tensions in the Region
Recently, the Russian nuclear submarine Kazan departed from Havana Bay after a five-day visit, stirring significant geopolitical interest. The Russian flotilla included the Kazan, the tanker Pashin, the rescue tug Nikolai Chiker, and the frigate Admiral Gorshkov.
During the same period, the U.S. government deployed ships and reconnaissance aircraft to the area and announced the arrival of the fast-attack submarine USS Helena at Guantanamo Bay. To "ease" geopolitical tensions in the region, the Canadian government sent the HMCS Margaret Brooke, which docked at the Port of Havana on June 14 and returned to Canada on Monday, June 17. Canadian authorities ensured that the visit to the Havana port was meticulously planned and pre-announced by the military.
FAQs on South African Warship Visit to Cuba
Given the recent announcement about the SAS Drakensberg's visit to Cuba, many questions have arisen concerning its implications and details. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
What is the purpose of the SAS Drakensberg's visit to Cuba?
The visit is part of South Africa's efforts to increase its naval presence in the Atlantic and to strengthen military ties with Cuba through participation in BRICS+ exercises.
How far will the SAS Drakensberg travel to reach Cuba?
The Drakensberg will travel nearly 4,200 nautical miles to Brazil and an additional 2,600 nautical miles to reach Cuba.
What are the concerns regarding the SAS Drakensberg's parts availability?
There are concerns about the availability of parts for the vessel, as Armscor's tender for spares has not yet been addressed.