The projects by two separate divisions within the state-owned defence company both fall under Project Sabela, which is being co-ordinated by Denel in partnership with other state-owned entities, research bodies and companies in the private sector.
Du Toit said: “We are optimistic about the potential to produce a low-cost, entry-level ventilator that can be used by the medical profession as the number of patients increase and the response levels are ramped up in the coming weeks.” Denel spokesperson Pam Malinda said: “This medical ventilator will be made from easy-to-source materials. Denel Dynamics, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced missile and precision-guided weapon systems, has switched its focus to the production of medical ventilators.
“Other companies in the Denel group are also contributing towards the national response to the pandemic. Denel Aeronautics is providing technical support to the helicopter fleet of the South African Air Force which has been deployed in all nine provinces.”