The Border Management Authority (BMA) of South Africa has announced plans to enhance its operational capacity by acquiring advanced Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for deployment at critical ports of entry. This initiative aligns with the BMA’s mandate to safeguard the nation’s borders and ensure the secure and efficient functioning of key entry points.
BMA officers will work closely with other security agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the Department of Home Affairs. This cooperative approach ensures that their operations overlap seamlessly with existing security frameworks.
The new drones will operate at various ports of entry and along border regions, providing tactical support for day-to-day activities. The procurement of these systems is a strategic move to enhance surveillance, safety, and operational efficiency.
The multi-rotor tactical drones being procured are designed to meet the unique demands of border security. They include:
Aircraft Specifications:
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- Maximum take-off weight of 2 kg.
- Compact dimensions, foldable for portability.
- Minimum flight time of 3 hours.
- Capability to operate in GPS-denied environments and resist GPS spoofing.
- Advanced anti-interference features to counter radio frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- Hot-swappable batteries and robust build for harsh environmental conditions.
Payload Capabilities:
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- High-resolution wide and zoom cameras (50 MP and 48 MP, respectively).
- Thermal imaging with a resolution of 640 x 512 pixels and 16x digital zoom.
- Night vision functionality with 2 MP resolution and 8x zoom.
- Laser rangefinder with a measuring range of up to 1,000 km.
Additional specifications include a hybrid electric and gasoline engine, a flight range of 10 km, a maximum altitude of 4,000 meters, and a video transmission range of up to 20 km. These features ensure the drones are suitable for extensive surveillance and logistical operations.
The BMA has outlined a delivery timeline of 30 days from the date of order, with the drones being dispatched to identified ports of entry. Initial allocations include two drones each for Beitbridge and Lebombo.
The drones are expected to have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years, emphasizing their role in the long-term strategy to secure South Africa’s borders. With capabilities such as license plate recognition, night surveillance, and laser scanning, the equipment will play a pivotal role in combating illegal activities and enhancing border integrity.
The procurement underscores the BMA’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to address security challenges, ensuring a safer and more secure South African border landscape.
The closure date for applications is 28th of January 2025, for more information, the bid document can be found here.