The South African Space Programme has an integrated civilian and military structure. The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is responsible for implementing the space policy of the State and works in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force on objectives related to outer space defence and security. The Space Command Section was established to be the primary military organ charged with defence-related space activities and coordination with SANSA. Crafting the space policy of the State is under the responsibility of the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Currently the South Africa National Space Policy and National Space Strategy serve as the guiding governance mechanisms for South Africa’s space activity. In addition, as a member State to the African Union, South Africa adheres to the established space framework by the African Union including key positions like the African Space Policy and African Space Strategy.