The Russian newspaper, Sputnik reported that a part of the Baltic Fleet, The Russian frigate Neustrashimy, alongside replenishment vessel Akademik Pashin, took part in South Africa’s Navy Parade on Saturday.
The parade which took place on the roadstead at the main naval base in Simon’s Town, managed to attract thousands of spectators.
A spokesperson for the Russian Consulate General in Cape Town said the frigate drew a lot of attention from visitors, including South Africa’s naval leader, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese.
The event, which takes place from October 4-6, 2024, provides individuals with an exclusive chance to interact with the country’s Navy’s vessel, and personnel.
This event dates back to 2000, making it a fairly young maritime heritage for South Africans.
Prior to the start of the three day event, the program promised to feature a Type 209 submarine that is accessible to the public, a number of navy ships, and a variety of capabilities demonstrations and displays, such as the always-famous SA Navy Band concerts and the Officers Sword and Sea Cadet Precision Drills.
Russia’s participation in Africa Aerospace and Defence
In July, it was reported that Russian companies including Rosoboronexport would be featured in Africa’s largest defense and aviation exhibition, known as Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD), 2024, which was also held in South Africa.
The report noted that at least six Russian companies including the state-owned Rosoboronexport were to be present at the AAD 2024 event which was held at South Africa’s Waterkloof Air Force Base near the country’s capital, Pretoria.
The agreements between the defense ministries of South Africa and Russia on military technology cooperation were formally ratified in 1995.
In addition to the BRICS summit in South Africa, Russia and the Southern African Development Community inked a military technical cooperation agreement in August 2018.
