Cape Town – Denel said on Tuesday that the successful deployment during peacekeeping operations in Africa of the Rooivalk combat helicopter, which is being marketed at this week’s Dubai Airshow, had focused international attention on the technological capabilities of the South African defence industry.
Speaking at the Dubai Airshow, which is running from November 8-12, Denel’s acting group chief executive, Zwelakhe Ntshepe, said the Rooivalk was proof that South Africa is able to design and manufacture defence systems that are among the best in the world.
A statement from Denel said the highly mobile helicopter, designed and manufactured by the state-owned company, turned the tide of hostilities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo when it was deployed in support of the United Nations Intervention Brigade in November 2013. The Rooivalk provided the winning edge for UN forces that had been locked in battle with M23 guerrilla groups in the eastern part of the DRC, firing multiple rockets against rebel bunkers and destroying targets within minutes of entering the combat zone.
The helicopter offers a protective shield to forces on the ground, providing them with support, defensive cover and reconnaissance capabilities. The Rooivalk is also a highly effective combat machine with the capability of engaging enemy forces in any weather conditions and in the most inhospitable terrain, the company added.
“The helicopter is designed to operate in harsh environments and can be deployed for lengthy periods without sophisticated support. It has a cruise speed of 280 km/h and a range of more than 700 kilometres,” said Ntshepe.
Depending on battlefield requirements, the Rooivalk could be armed with up to 16 Mokopa anti-tank missiles – developed by Denel Dynamics – four air-to-air missiles, 76 aerial rockets and a 20mm high-speed cannon capable of firing up to 750 rounds per minute. Given the capabilities of the Mokopa, the Rooivalk could engage the enemy at distances of up 8,000 metres.
“The Rooivalk programme has underscored the capabilities of the South African defence industry to design and manufacture world-class products and systems. It has further promoted Denel’s growth into a high-technology powerhouse that contributes greatly to South Africa’s defence and security needs, with the capacity to provide international clients with tailor-made solutions,” said Ntshepe.
African News Agency