News24 The Lead

Denel sends US firm 2 old jets allegedly without ejector seats

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State-owned arms manufacturer Denel, known for developing world-renowned defence weaponry, including the Casspir armoured vehicle and the Rooivalk attack helicopter, has been battling to stay financially afloat in recent years, despite government bailouts. And now a jet deal it struck with a US firm has seemingly soured, too. Bringing The Lead this exclusive story today is business journalist Jan Cronje. Cronje details how Denel’s 2017 contract was to sell Draken International 12 jets, but according to Draken’s court papers, it only received three jets, two of which apparently didn’t have ejector seats! Later in the show, a kidnapped Gqeberha woman is safely reunited with her family. Also, celebrated thespian Dr John Kani now has the honour of handing out Oscars. Finally, The Lead pauses to remember the late great broadcaster and political journalist, Tshidi Madia. You can send host Graeme Raubenheimer a voice note with your questions or thoughts on this episode to: +27 72 562 3179. Mail your comments to: thelead@24.com. Editions drop Monday through Thursday at 19:00 on Spotify, Apple and YouTube.  
Chapters
  • 00:01 Graeme's intro
  • 01:56 Interview with Jan Cronje
  • 24:38 Trending topic: Kidnapped Gqeberha woman safely home
  • 25:31 AD: News24's The Weekender
  • 25:59 And finally: Dr John Kani becomes Oscar judge
  • 27:04 Condolences to all who loved Tshidi Madia
  • 27:27 Graeme's outro
27 Aug 2025 English South Africa News · Society & Culture

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