From Russia with love: ‘Blackjack’ bombers in SA as Ramaphosa arrives at Russia-Africa summit

South Africans have a rare change this week to see two Tu-160s (so-called ‘Blackjack’ bombers), an Il-62, and an An-124 in Tshwane as part of a historic visit by the Russian Air Force to the South African Air Force.

The jets are the world’s biggest military aircraft and are capable of launching nuclear missiles. 

According to a statement by the South African National Defense Force (SANDF), the "military to military" cooperation is built on common interest. 

The jets in South Africa at the same time that President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the Russian Federation to lead a South African delegation to the first Russia-Africa Summit, which takes place on Wednesday and Thursday. 

According tot he Presidency, the forum will focus on key areas of cooperation between Russia and African countries. 

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 While in Russia, Ramaphosa is expected to have bilateral meetings with President Vladimir Putin and other Heads of State and Government attending the Summit.   

Ramaphosa will also address the summit's plenary session.

According to the Presidency,  "Bilateral relations between the Republic of South Africa and the Russian Federation are at an optimal level and continue to grow from strength to strength."