1.3 Section 200 of the Constitution sets out the mandate of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) which is to "defend and protect the Republic, its territorial integrity and its people in accordance with the Constitution and the principles of international law regulating the use of force". In pursuance of this mandate, the Department of Defence provides, manages, prepares and employs defence capabilities commensurate with the needs of South Africa, guided by Constitution, relevant legislation and Executive direction.