South Africa's navy and shipping diverted around the Cape

Will Bab el-Mandeb disruption make South Africa's navy more important, and can it cope?

The maritime role would grow, but stronger presence requires investment to recover diminished capabilities.

An unreliable Bab el-Mandeb route increases the importance of shipping around southern Africa. South Africa's naval capabilities have declined despite its long coastline. Existing forces provide a base, but more presence requires new ships and investment. Like India, South Africa has maritime responsibilities alongside a substantial land border.