The SANDF hopes to return hundreds of combat and logistical vehicles to their former glory in an intensive restoration project. Situated at the 101 Field Workshop, at the Army Combat Training Centre (CTC) in the Northern Cape, Ratels and other vehicles are being brought back to life, reports SA Defence Web.
The Ratel is arguably South Africa’s most notable military innovation. Locally designed and manufactured, the long-range infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) was the first of its kind to enter service anywhere in the world. During apartheid, the SANDF had to develop its own weapons, fighter jets and combat vehicles, due to the international arms embargo.
SANDF RESTORES COMBAT VEHICLES
According to Major Motau of the SANDF 101 workshop, the main task is to repair and maintain all prime mission equipment (PME). This is being done with our Cuban defence force counterparts, who have also assisted by building four driving simulators for the SANDF. Moreover, the purpose is not just for nostalgia’s sake. But for deployments, demonstrations and to ensure combat readiness.
“Serviceability last month (November 2025) was about 90%. Securing spare parts can be challenging but the SANDF is refurbishing many of its own spares to help lower the cost,” Motau said. Furthermore, with emphasis on self-reliance, work is done in-house where possible, rather than outsourced to other companies. As a result, the army has established five regional workshops around the country to ensure the wheels keep turning.
ARMOURED VEHICLE REHABILITATION
Moreover, Motau says that since August 2024, more than 100 Ratels have been refurbished. And dozens more are in the process of being brought back to their former glory. This includes servicing mechanical components and repainting the vehicle from brown to camouflage. It can take anything from a couple of days, to several weeks, to fully refurbish a Ratel. Even a basic engine service is a fairly complicated affair. Changing oil and filters requires the entire engine to be dropped down from the vehicle.
But what do you think? Is SANDF restoration of military vehicles a worthwhile use of taxpayer money? Do you want to see our army fighting fit and combat ready? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below …