South Africa’s state-owned defense company, Denel, is making a significant appearance at Asia’s largest defense expo, the Defense System Asia Exhibition (DSA), held annually in Kuala Lumpur since 1988. The expo draws the region’s top defense decision-makers, analysts, and media, providing a platform for observing the latest products and engaging with industry leaders.
Tsepo Monaheng, the Group CEO of Denel, expressed that DSA24 presents an invaluable opportunity to demonstrate the quality and breadth of Denel’s offerings. The company is renowned globally for its landward defense products and guided weapons systems, which are in high demand due to their innovation and cost-effectiveness.
“This is an opportunity to showcase the quality and range of our products,” says Tsepo Monaheng, the Group CEO of Denel. “We enjoy a global reputation for our landward defence products, and our guided weapons systems which compete with the rest of the world at a time when there is a significant increase in demand for innovative and cost-effective products.”
Denel’s longstanding relationship with Malaysia’s defense community serves as a foundation for further expansion in Southeast Asia and beyond. The company’s flagship product, the Umkhonto missile, has been a cornerstone for over two decades and continues to evolve with cutting-edge technology to satisfy both current and prospective clients.
“Denel has long-standing ties with the defence community in Malaysia and we will use
DSA24 to consolidate our foothold and grow our presence in Southeast Asia and beyond,” says Monaheng.
The Umkhonto missile, a surface-to-air missile capable of exceeding twice the speed of sound, can be launched from naval vessels or ground-based launchers. It boasts a configuration that can carry up to eight missiles, targeting multiple threats simultaneously. Its proven effectiveness against concurrent missile and aircraft attacks, coupled with its competitive pricing, makes it a top choice in its category.
Another highlight in Denel’s arsenal is the Ingwe anti-tank missile (ATM), known for its adaptability. It can be deployed from helicopters and mobile land platforms, offering portability and cost-efficiency with a range of up to 5km. The Ingwe ATM features jam-resistant, laser beam-riding guidance, ensuring relentless pursuit of the target until its destruction.
At DSA24, Denel is also exhibiting a broad spectrum of landward combat and mine-protected vehicles. Monaheng emphasized the company’s solid reputation in Asia, built on historic partnerships, and the respected quality of its turrets, long-range artillery, and mine-resistant vehicles.
The RG series of vehicles from Denel provides robust and economical solutions for military operations in conflict zones. The RG41, a new generation combat vehicle, fulfills stringent requirements for firepower, mobility, and protection, aligning with the demands of modern warfare. The RG31 Mk5 EHM, an armored personnel carrier, offers unparalleled protection against small arms and anti-tank mines, while the RG21 can be tailored for various missions, ensuring exceptional crew and passenger safety.
Monaheng declared that Denel’s participation in DSA24 signals the company’s readiness for business, with plans to engage with influential defense analysts and decision-makers to explore trade and collaboration opportunities across Southeast Asia.
“We intend to meet with high-powered defence analysts and decision-makers and seek opportunities for trade and collaboration throughout the broader Southeast Asia region.”
Denel’s financial stability has been bolstered by substantial funds received last year, including nearly R1 billion from the Denel Medical Benefit Trust (DMBT) and R3.4 billion from Treasury recapitalization. This support has enabled Denel to streamline its operations and adopt a new business model, consolidating its divisions into four key units: Guided Weapons, Land, Air, and Integrated Systems, positioning the company for future growth and innovation.