South African Air Force Military Skills Development System (MSDS) Intake for 2026 – Apply with Matric

Deadline: 28th March 2025

The South African Air Force (SAAF) is inviting young South African citizens to apply for the Military Skills Development System (MSDS) intake for 2026. This is a great opportunity for individuals looking to gain military experience and enhance their skills.

Closing Date for Applications: 28 March 2025

General Requirements

To apply for the MSDS intake, you must meet the following criteria:

• South African Citizen (no dual citizenship).
• Age:
  • 18 to 22 years old (with a Grade 12 certificate).
  • 18 to 26 years old (with a 3-year tertiary qualification or N6 when reporting).
• Admission Paint Score (APS): 17 and above, excluding Life Orientation (LO).
• No criminal record or pending legal cases.
• Medical fitness: Must meet the required medical standards.
• Appearance: No visible tattoos on legs, lower arms, neck, or face.

Other screening includes:

• Drug testing.
• Psychometric and medical evaluations.
• Criminal record check.
• Pre-screening and qualification verification.

Available Career Options

You can choose from various support careers within the Air Force. Here are the roles you can apply for:

• Communications Operator (Grade 12 with Mathematics Level 4 or Maths Literacy Level 5).
• Fire Fighter (Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science Level 3).
• Human Resources Clerk (Grade 12).
• Hospitality Services (Grade 12).
• Material Support Clerk (Grade 12).
• Radar Reporting Operator (Grade 12 with Mathematics Level 4 or higher).
• Protection Services (Grade 12).
• Material Support Clerk Admin (Grade 12).
• Flight Operations Management (Grade 12 with Mathematics Level 4 or Maths Literacy Level 5).
• Defence Intelligence (Grade 12 with Bachelor’s pass, English Level 4, Mathematics and Physical Science Level 4, Geography and History Level 4).
• Military Police (Grade 12).

How to Apply

• Documents Needed:
  • CV
  • Certified copy of your ID
  • Matric Certificate (only 2023 Statement of Results will be accepted)
  • Tertiary Qualifications (if applicable).
• Submission Options:
  • Hand-deliver your application to the nearest recruitment center.
  • Alternatively, post your application to:
    Air Force Base Swartkop (West)
    Recruitment Section
    Private Bag X05, Valhalla, Pretoria, 0001

Download the application form and relevant details here:

• SAAF Application Form

Important Information

• The closing date for applications is 28 March 2025.
• Please ensure all required documents are attached. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Only successful candidates will be contacted.
• If you haven’t heard back by 31 December 2025, consider your application unsuccessful.

Start your journey with the South African Air Force today. Apply now and take the first step toward an exciting career!