South African Air Force

The SAAF was officially founded on 1 February 1920, with its anniversary celebrated on the Friday closest to 1 February. This year marks the centenary of the SAAF's first operational deployment, when it helped quell internal dissent during the 1922 miner's strike on the Johannesburg gold mines after this turned violent and led to the declaration of martial law. defenceWeb understands at least two Hawks will take part in Friday's parade, along with Rooivalk attack helicopters and several A109 and Oryx utility/transport rotorcraft. Some of these aircraft may possibly still be present and take part in the SAAF Museum flying training day on Saturday 5 February. Flying training days, held on the first Saturday of the month, are back on the calendar after a relaxation of lockdown regulations to prevent the spread of COVID-19.