The South African National Air Force has officially opened applications for its Military Skills Development System (MSDS) 2026 intake. This prestigious programme offers young South Africans the opportunity to serve in the military on a two-year contract, gaining valuable experience and skills.
Key Details of the SANDF MSDS 2026 Programme
- Application Closing Date: 28 March 2025
- Start Date: Early 2026
- Contract Duration: Two years
- Available Branches: SA Air Force (SAAF)
MSDS Training & Deployment
During the first year, recruits undergo basic military and functional training. In the second year, they are deployed where needed, applying their acquired knowledge and skills.
Upon completing the 24-month MSDS period, selected individuals may be offered short-term contracts in the full-time military force (usually for 10 years). Others will transition to the Reserve Force, utilizing their military training in civilian life.
MSDS 2026 Application Forms
- SA Air Force MSDS 2026 Application (Support Careers): Download Here
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the MSDS programme, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens (no dual citizenship allowed).
- Be between 18 and 22 years old (graduates up to 26 years old).
- Have completed or be currently in Grade 12.
- Have no serious criminal record or pending cases.
- Have no visible tattoos.
- Meet SANDF medical fitness requirements.
Important Note: If you have not been contacted by 31 December 2025, consider your application unsuccessful.
Where to Apply for the SANDF MSDS 2026
Application forms must be collected and submitted at regional offices across South Africa:
Regional Offices & Contact Details
- Free State: Army Support Base, Bloemfontein – 051 402 1262
- Western Cape: Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town – (021) 787 1023/4
- Limpopo: Army Support Recruitment, Polokwane – 015 299 3318
- KwaZulu-Natal: Lords Ground Military Base, Durban – 012 339 5042
- Eastern Cape: Army Support Base, Port Elizabeth – 041 505 1101/1268
- Northern Cape: Army Support Base, Kimberley – 053 530 3204
- North West: Army Support Base, Potchefstroom – 018 289 3322
- Gauteng: Recruitment Office, Pretoria – 012 339 5718/5754/5042
- Mpumalanga: Army Support Base, Mbombela – 013 249 3534
Application Submission – Postal Addresses
Alternatively, applicants may submit completed forms via post to the respective service branches:
- SA Air Force: Recruitment Section, Private Bag X05, Valhalla, Pretoria, 0001
Important Information
⚠️ SANDF does NOT have an online application system. Applicants must physically collect and submit forms at the designated regional offices or send them via post.
This is an incredible opportunity for young South Africans looking to build a career in the military. Make sure to apply before 28 March 2025 to secure your spot in the SANDF MSDS 2026 programme!
