Arms makers given ammo

South African military equipment manufacturers will, for the first time, be able to compete head-to-head with their British counterparts for multibillion-rand contracts with the UK armed forces.

The announcement was made yesterday at the African Aerospace and Defence trade show at Waterkloof air force base, Pretoria.

The show is Africa's biggest military trade event and is expected to draw 40000 trade visitors from 28 countries between today and tomorrow, with R700-million in sales expected to be generated. The products and services of 350 exhibitors are on display.

Sophie Lane, director for Africa, the Middle East and Europe of the British non-ministerial government department UK Trade and Investment, made the announcement. She said Africa, and in particular South Africa, was regarded as a developing market.

The intention is to draw South African businesses into partnerships with UK companies in the defence, security and disaster relief sectors.

Lane said South African companies would for the first time have the opportunity to bid alongside UK businesses to supply equipment to the UK's armed forces.

"These contracts, both short- and long-term, open up huge possibilities," said Lane.

"Tenders are being invited for contracts for everything from the manufacture of boots to the development of sophisticated and specialised avionics, vehicles and munitions.

"The message we want to send out is that the UK is open for business with South African companies."

Minister of Defence Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula opened the African Aerospace and Defence show saying partnerships with "our allies" were vital to ensuring the success of all.

"Such partnerships will contribute to the continued success of our defence force and of our industries," she said.