South African Navy chief, vice admiral Monde Lobese, is expected to highlight the latest developments in the navy’s maritime security plans for the country at an upcoming defence conference.
Lobese will deliver the keynote address for the maritime security segment of the Africa Aerospace and Defence Conference, which will be held at Air Force Base Waterkloof from 18 to 20 September.
He will present an extensive overview of the navy’s vision and its plans for future developments, including getting its vessels back to sea and the introduction of new ships to the fleet.
The segment will also focus on the impact of Houthi attacks on international commercial shipping and the effect of piracy along the coast of Somalia on regional and global maritime security.
The business case for deploying an auxiliary support vessel or drone carrier to support the SA Navy’s combat vessels will be highlighted, as well as lessons learned in naval procurement processes to improve operational efficiency.
A panel discussion will underscore the importance of regional maritime security and co-operation to confront security challenges in the region. Centre for Democracy and Development director, Adriano Nuvunga, will highlight strategies to enhance maritime security, counter violent extremism, and strengthen security sector governance in Mozambique in a regional context.
Sessions will also focus on the latest maritime technology, including the potential and challenges associated with deploying uncrewed surface vessels into maritime operations and the use of the Oceans and Coastal Information Management System to monitor South Africa’s oceans.
For more information and to register, visit the AAD 2024 Conference Website.
