Story perspectives

South Africa, Russia to Boost Land-Force Cooperation and Training

7/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Africa Army chief Lt. Gen. Lawrence Mbatha met Russian Col. Gen. Alexander Matovnikov and agreed to deepen land-force cooperation.
The Russian Defence Ministry said the sides discussed joint projects at the General Headquarters to boost combat readiness.
Mbatha’s delegation will tour Russian military academies and defence companies, indicating future training cooperation.
Russian officials praised South Africa’s firm, non-aligned stance and its role in the expanded BRICS multipolar agenda.

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Story summary

South Africa Army chief Lt. Gen. Lawrence Mbatha met Russian Col. Gen. Alexander Matovnikov and agreed to deepen land-force cooperation.
The Russian Defence Ministry said the sides discussed joint projects at the General Headquarters to boost combat readiness.
Mbatha’s delegation will tour Russian military academies and defence companies, indicating future training cooperation.
Russian officials praised South Africa’s firm, non-aligned stance and its role in the expanded BRICS multipolar agenda.