SANDF spends R2.6bn on Cuban engineers

Project Thusano has seen Cuban military mechanics service South African National Defence Force vehicles since 2015.

Modise revealed the details in a written reply to a question asked by the Democratic Alliance in Parliament.

The sub-contracts range from providing military vehicle repairs, including the infantry combat vehicles, armoured fighting vehicles, aircraft repairs and medical equipment repairs amongst others.

Since from 2015 to 2021, the SANDF has spent more than R1.3 billion on the mechanics.

Modise says from 2022 to January 2025, South Africa would have spent more than R1.2 billion, which in total will be R2.6 billion when the Cubans are scheduled to leave.

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"There are only two main contracts with the Cuban government, there are 17 sub-contracts per main contract entered into with the Cuban government. 

"As the nature of the contracts are for collaboration on the provision of professional services and also vocational training, terms outstanding cannot be determined,” said Modise in the statement.

Modise says Project Thusano has been sent for review after the auditor-general raised concerns.

"Furthermore, the CSANDF has been directed to reprioritise as the skills transfer has happened and will continue until the expiry of the contracts. The AGSA findings are matters being dealt with as part of continuous engagements with that office."

Last week 50 Infantry Personnel Carriers, known as the 'Mambas', left Bloemfontein for Pretoria after being repaired by the Cubans.