Graeme Raubenheimer speaks to Helmoed Heitman, defence analyst, who says the exercise may offer limited military benefit for South Africa while creating serious diplomatic discomfort. He explains that BRICS does not have a formal defence structure, raising questions about the branding of the drills, and cautions that South Africa risks being seen as drifting away from its stated policy of non-alignment — particularly at a time when relations with key Western trading partners remain economically critical.

Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. 

A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. 

Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham 

Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk 

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