A file photo shows SANDF soldiers. <i>Credit: AFP</i>
A file photo shows SANDF soldiers. Credit: AFP    

A South African Air Force (SAAF) helicopter suffered damage after being hit by groundfire in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it has been reported.

The Oryx helicopter was conducting a routine patrol when the incident occurred, eNCAreported.

“The South African National Defence Force confirms that on Friday 11 March 2016 a South African Air Force Oryx helicopter came under unprovoked gunfire from an unidentified ground attacker(s) while conducting routine aerial patrols in the Democratic Republic of Congo,” Brigadier-General Xolani Mabanga reportedly said.

No casualties were reported however.

The helicopter was able to continue the flight and return to its base, where minor structual damage was revealed.