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OUDTSHOORN NEWS: The Infantry School in Oudtshoorn recently presented a close-combat fighting training demonstration, highlighting the continued importance of preparing soldiers for the realities of modern warfare.
Oudtshoorn Courant spoke to Colonel Tiitsetso Sekgobela, officer commanding of the Infantry School, about the continued importance of close-combat fighting training in an era where modern warfare is increasingly shaped by advanced technology.
According to Sekgobela, while sophisticated weapons, drones and digital communication systems have transformed the modern battlefield, the importance of a well-trained infantry soldier remains unchanged.
The Infantry School, recognised as the Centre of Excellence for the South African Army Infantry Formation, acknowledges that technology can enhance a soldier's capabilities, but cannot replace the courage, discipline, physical strength and fighting spirit required of an infantry soldier.
Sekgobela emphasised that technology is not infallible, and that soldiers must be prepared to operate effectively when systems or equipment fail.
Communication networks can be disrupted, weapons may malfunction, and ammunition may become depleted, leaving soldiers to rely on their physical abilities, mental resilience and close combat skills to survive. "This is precisely why close-combat fighting training remains an essential component of infantry training," she explained.
The training equips soldiers to remain confident, disciplined and effective, even under the most challenging circumstances.
It also develops physical endurance, mental toughness, situational awareness and quick decision-making, while preparing soldiers to protect themselves and their fellow troops when faced with immediate threats.
"When technology fails, training takes over. When equipment fails, discipline remains. And when circumstances become difficult, the fighting spirit of a well-trained infantry soldier must prevail," Sekgobela said.
She stressed that close-combat fighting training should not be viewed merely as an additional military skill, but as a vital investment in the survival, operational readiness and combat effectiveness of the South African Army.
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