Division for Defence Science and Technology
Division for Defence Science and Technology
The Division for Defence Science and Technology within the Faculty of Military Science provides officers with advanced education in technology and its application in the modern military environment. The division’s academic offering includes programmes in Technology and in Technology and Defence Management, supported by foundational modules in Mathematics and Physics. These core scientific subjects underpin students’ understanding of the complex technological and operational concepts that follow, ensuring strong analytical competence and computational literacy.
Physics plays a central role in equipping officers with the scientific grounding needed to understand weapon systems, ballistics, propulsion, energy systems, and the physical principles governing military technologies. The rigorous curriculum enhances problem-solving abilities and prepares students for advanced studies in technology, aeronautics, and related defence applications.
Nautical Science forms another key component of the division’s academic landscape. Modules within this field empower students with knowledge of navigation, maritime operations, oceanographic dynamics, and the technological systems that support naval strategy and seamanship. By combining theoretical instruction with contextualised military applications, the division develops officers who can operate confidently and competently in complex maritime environments.
The division also offers specialised exposure to Aeronautics, addressing both fundamental and applied aspects of flight, aviation technology, aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and air-power employment. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of the scientific and operational principles that inform the use of air platforms within joint military contexts. This knowledge supports the development of officers capable of contributing to air-operations planning, aviation safety, and technology-driven air-defence strategies.
Across its academic programmes, the division provides a technologically rich and conducive learning environment designed to support officers pursuing the BMil degree, as well as postgraduate studies in Military Geography and Computer Information Systems (CIS). Through an integrated curriculum and dedicated academic support, the division nurtures scholars who are equipped to apply computational tools, interpret geospatial information, and solve spatially related environmental problems relevant to military decision-making.
Graduates are trained to use modern technology as an operational enabler — from computer systems to geospatial applications — allowing them to take informed decisions regarding human–natural environments, military planning, and operational challenges across land, sea, and air domains.
The Division’s mission is to produce military scholars equipped with relevant knowledge in computer technology, military geography, nautical science, aeronautics, and applied physics. This is achieved through rigorous theoretical study, practical learning, and contextual military education conducted in support of the mandate of the Department of Defence and in alignment with the academic ideals of the Military Academy and Stellenbosch University.
Department of Aeronautical Science
Department of Military Technology
Department of Nautical Science
Department of Computer and Information Systems