DAFF research and patrol vessels were in 'poor condition', Navy says

Briefing the media at Simon's Town Naval Base, Mhlana said that prior to the signature of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), DAFF had indicated to the Navy that the vessels were seaworthy and in excellent condition, says defenceweb.

"But when we received them," he said, "the meaning of 'excellent condition' was then under question." Whilst conducting repairs, training and readiness inspections on the vessels, the Navy was forced to utilise its own warships.

"We have now reached a stage where (the DAFF vessels) are now able to conduct their designated operations safely and successfully under naval command," said Mhlana, adding that all the ships that are now on patrol are fully staffed with competent people, with the right qualifications for the job, reports defenceWeb.

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