PRETORIA - Operational features on frigates bought as part of the controversial Arms Deal are so complex, that it&39;ll take the SA Navy some time to use the vessels optimally.
This was the evidence of Admiral Philip Schoultz at the inquiry into the multi-billion rand purchase.
He says budgetary constraints is another factor.
The navy&39;s top brass has been at pains to convince the Seriti Commission that the weapons purchased were critical to defend the country.
They&39;ve consistently denied the war ships and submarines are under-utilized or downright inoperable.
But the third navy witness before the commission has now acknowledged that their use is well below decades-old plans.
Schoultz also admits the vessels&39; complex systems have never been encountered by our navy.
Watch eNCA reporter, Thulasizwe Simelane&39;s full report into today&39;s evidence hearing.
