This is how South Africa’s army compares to the superpowers of the world.
South Africa’s army is ranked 46 out of 126 military forces in the world, according to Global Firepower’s 2016 ranking.
Global Firepower bases its ranking on each nation’s “potential conventional war-making capability across land, sea, and air”.
“The final ranking incorporates values related to resources, finances, and geography, and over 50 different factors make up the final GFP ranking, delivering the PowerIndex,” it said.
“Bonuses and penalties are applied where appropriate.”
South Africa’s Army
In first place was the United States of America, followed by Russia, China, India, and France.
The strength of South Africa’s army is detailed below – broken down into categories.
Manpower
Available manpower – 26,000,000
Fit for service – 14,100,000
Active frontline personnel – 89,000
Active reserve personnel – 17,100
Land systems
Tanks – 195
Armoured fighting vehicles – 2,265
Self-propelled guns – 43
Towed artillery – 97
Multiple-launch rocket systems – 50
Air power
Total aircraft – 212
Fighters/interceptors – 17
Fixed-wing attack aircraft – 17
Transport aircraft – 109
Trainer aircraft – 67
Helicopters – 96
Attack helicopters – 12
Naval power
Frigates – 4
Submarines – 3
Coastal defence craft – 26
Mine warfare – 4