Armscor Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Armscor has 4 executives leading key functions including acquisition management, research and development, technology innovation, and administrative operations.

Focused on national security, Armscor delivers advanced defense solutions through rigorous acquisition management and scientific research to ensure the safety of South Africa and the broader continent.

Leadership Roles at Armscor

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sipho Mkwanazi
  • Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI - Kevin Hanafey
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Lettie Welthagen
  • Senior Executive Manager - Dirk Robinson
  • Sipho Mkwanazi - Chief Executive Officer

    Sipho Mkwanazi, the Chief Executive Officer at Armscor, directs the overarching strategic vision for defense acquisition and state-level security procurement. Overseeing the entire corporate portfolio, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between government defense requirements and technological output. Sipho Mkwanazi manages high-level relationships with the Department of Defence, driving initiatives that bolster national security capabilities across the African continent. By optimizing acquisition management processes, the Chief Executive Officer maintains operational excellence within the Naval Dockyard and various research divisions. This leadership role involves constant coordination with the Board to secure long-term sustainability and innovation. Through rigorous oversight of defense technology projects, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that all state entities receive advanced, reliable solutions. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of accountability and technical precision, ensuring that every procurement decision supports the broader mission of protecting national interests and maintaining regional stability.

    Kevin Hanafey - Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI

    Kevin Hanafey, the Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI at Armscor, manages the specialized research, development, and technology innovation sectors. Directing the scientific research agenda, the Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI ensures that all defense solutions meet modern technological standards. Kevin Hanafey oversees the integration of advanced engineering practices into the acquisition lifecycle, providing critical support for state-level security projects. By leading the research and development teams, the Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI drives the creation of cutting-edge defense tools tailored for the South African market. This role requires constant collaboration with technical experts to refine operational methodologies and enhance product efficacy. Through the management of complex innovation pipelines, the Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI secures a competitive advantage for the organization. Ultimately, the Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI maintains a focus on scientific rigor, ensuring that all technological advancements directly contribute to the safety and security mandates of the corporation.

    Lettie Welthagen - Chief Administrative Officer

    Lettie Welthagen, the Chief Administrative Officer at Armscor, governs the internal infrastructure and corporate support systems necessary for effective defense acquisition. Overseeing human resources, facilities management, and organizational compliance, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all departments operate with maximum efficiency. Lettie Welthagen directs the administrative framework that supports the Naval Dockyard and various research facilities, maintaining the operational backbone of the organization. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief Administrative Officer facilitates seamless communication between the executive leadership and the broader workforce. This role involves managing corporate governance standards to ensure full alignment with government regulations and state entity requirements. Through the implementation of robust administrative policies, the Chief Administrative Officer optimizes resource allocation across all regional operations. Ultimately, the Chief Administrative Officer provides the essential support structure required for the successful execution of complex defense projects, ensuring that the organization remains agile and responsive to national security needs.

    Dirk Robinson - Senior Executive Manager

    Dirk Robinson, the Senior Executive Manager at Armscor, executes high-level operational strategies within the acquisition and defense procurement divisions. Overseeing the execution of complex defense contracts, the Senior Executive Manager ensures that all deliverables meet the stringent requirements of the Department of Defence. Dirk Robinson directs the coordination of cross-functional teams to manage the lifecycle of security solutions, from initial research to final deployment. By monitoring project milestones and budget adherence, the Senior Executive Manager maintains fiscal responsibility across all active defense programs. This leadership role involves frequent interaction with state entities to refine procurement strategies and address evolving security challenges. Through the application of advanced management techniques, the Senior Executive Manager drives operational improvements that enhance the overall effectiveness of the acquisition agency. Ultimately, the Senior Executive Manager secures the successful delivery of critical defense assets, ensuring that all projects align with the strategic goals of the organization.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Armscor Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Armscor?
    Armscor is led by Sipho Mkwanazi (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kevin Hanafey (Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI) and Lettie Welthagen (Chief Administrative Officer).
    Who is part of Armscor’s executive team?
    The executive team of Armscor includes leaders such as Sipho Mkwanazi (Chief Executive Officer), Kevin Hanafey (Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI), Lettie Welthagen (Chief Administrative Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Armscor have?
    Armscor has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Armscor’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Armscor includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer DERI, Chief Administrative Officer, Senior Executive Manager.