Die ontwikkeling van die SA Leër in die Grensoorlog, 1966-1989

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyse known facts from a specific viewpoint and, in doing so, to enhance our understanding of the Border War. The real focal point is the South African Army and the influence of the war on its development. Here the war serves as a catalyst. The army was hopelessly unprepared and the shock of its defeat in the first phase of the Angolese Civil War in 1975-'76 was a wake-up call. It led to introspection, resulting in an urgent arms development programme, radical reorganisation and the development of refined doctrines concerning counter-insurgency and conventional warfare. Ultimately the lack of intellectual thought would revenge itself upon the Army.