Navy comparison: Australia vs South Africa
Australia operates a fleet of 41 ships compared to 49 for South Africa. The fleet breakdown includes 6 vs 3 submarines, 3 vs 0 destroyers, 8 vs 4 frigates, 3 vs 0 amphibious ships, 13 vs 33 patrol boats, 4 vs 2 mine warfare ships (Australia vs South Africa). Australia's navy is officially the Royal Australian Navy, while South Africa's is the South African Navy.
Royal Australian Navy 🇦🇺
| Official Name | Royal Australian Navy |
| Total ships | 41 as of 2025 |
| Active ships | 41 as of 2025 |
| Naval Ensign |
|
South African Navy 🇿🇦
| Official Name | South African Navy |
| Total ships | 49 as of 2025 |
| Active ships | 49 as of 2025 |
Australian ships by category
| Ship category | Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Submarines | 6 | |
| Aircraft carriers | 0 | |
| Destroyers | 3 | |
| Cruisers | 0 | |
| Frigates | 8 | |
| Corvettes | 0 | |
| Coastal boats | 0 | |
| Patrol boats | 13 | |
| Amphibious ships | 3 | |
| Mine Warfare ships | 4 | |
| Cargo ships | 0 | |
| Support ships | 2 | |
| Other ships | 2 | |
South African ships by category
| Ship category | Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Submarines | 3 | |
| Aircraft carriers | 0 | |
| Destroyers | 0 | |
| Cruisers | 0 | |
| Frigates | 4 | |
| Corvettes | 0 | |
| Coastal boats | 0 | |
| Patrol boats | 33 | |
| Amphibious ships | 0 | |
| Mine Warfare ships | 2 | |
| Cargo ships | 0 | |
| Support ships | 7 | |
| Other ships | 0 | |
Ship Categories Radar Comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more naval ships, Australia or South Africa?
South Africa has a larger navy with 49 ships compared to Australia's 41 ships.
Which navy has more submarines, Australia or South Africa?
Australia operates more submarines with 6 compared to South Africa's 3.
Which navy has more destroyers, Australia or South Africa?
Australia operates 3 destroyers compared to South Africa's 0.
Which navy has more frigates, Australia or South Africa?
Australia operates 8 frigates compared to South Africa's 4.