Deputy Speaker, the Defence Force, especially the Air Force, is in deep trouble. At current funding levels, the Gripen advanced light fighter system, which cost billions of rand, cannot be fully implemented. According to a briefing by the Air Force, the intention at this stage is to fly the Gripens at a minimum to maintain system integrity and to maintain competencies only.
Rather than allocating more money within the existing Defence budget to the Gripen system, the Minister appears to be allocating R971 million less to the Gripen system. In light of this, would the hon Minister explain whether she has a plan to ensure that the Gripen system is fully implemented and, if indeed the Minister does have a plan, whether she would be prepared to share the details of that plan? Thank you.