2.1.2 The Military Skills Development System (MSDS) and the establishment of an effective military exit mechanism are central to ensuring that the defence force recruits young and fit recruits, while at the same time, allowing a planned exit or retirement of soldiers, without the currently associated loss of skills or experience. The success of both these strategies are crucial in ensuring that the defence force remain appropriately skilled, young and representative, and are able to operate and maintain defence equipment in defence of South Africa.