by Joan Swart | Jul 2, 2026 | Defence Policy and Strategy, CSIR, Military Academy Stellenbosch, R&D, SANDF, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: Defence research is about far more than technology. It is the mechanism through which a defence establishment learns, adapts and remains strategically relevant. This article argues that the real challenge is not simply increasing R&D expenditure, but...
by Joan Swart | Jun 19, 2026 | Defence Policy and Strategy, SANDF, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: The debate over defence spending is often framed as a choice between security and development. This article argues that the real challenge is not choosing between “guns” and “butter”, but ensuring that resource allocation is guided by...
by Joan Swart | Jun 10, 2026 | Defence Policy and Strategy, SANDF, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: South Africa’s defence sector does not appear to suffer from a shortage of audits, reviews, investigations or task teams. It suffers from a shortage of implementation. Using recent calls for a new defence task team as a starting point, this article...
by Joan Swart | Jun 3, 2026 | Africa and Global Power, Defence Policy and Strategy, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: South Africa’s defence crisis is often framed as a problem of insufficient funding. This article argues that the deeper challenge is one of strategic incoherence. Using the Clausewitzian framework of ends, ways, and means, it examines how misalignment...
by Joan Swart | May 27, 2026 | Africa and Global Power, Defence Policy and Strategy, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: This article examines the persistent gap between symbolic recognition and functional capability in Africa’s post-independence statecraft. Using the Alliance of Sahel States and South Africa’s defence-industrial ecosystem as empirical anchors, it argues that...
by Joan Swart | May 21, 2026 | Africa and Global Power, Defence Policy and Strategy, National Security - Nasionale Veiligheid, South Africa, Strategic Interconnectivity
Abstract: South Africa’s defence difficulties are increasingly framed as a budget and personnel problem within the SANDF. This article argues that the deeper challenge is one of strategic coherence. Growing misalignment between political ambition, operational...
