Top-level discussions are underway which could result in the Navy patrolling the country's coastline to protect marine resources.
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson reportedly discussed this possibility with her defence counterpart Lindiwe Sisulu.
An in principle agreement was reached and the matter is now being taken up further between the two departments.
At the moment the private company Smit Amandla Marine will patrol the coastline until the end of the month, when its contract expires.
Meanwhile, the public protector is investigating an R800m contract awarded to Sekunjalo Investments, but this has subsequently been withdrawn pending the probe.
