The public hearings into South Africa's multi-billion rand arms deal are set to resume at the Synodal Centre in Pretoria.

The proceedings were adjourned on June 19 after the testimony of Trade and Industry Minister Alec Erwin.

Then, the presiding panel said forensic experts needed time to move  closer to the completion of their investigations. It was not yet known who would be the first witness to take the stand.

Witnesses so far have told the panel there had been little room for corruption in the procurement process.

Public Protector Selby Baqwa, who chairs the panel, earlier said evidence that might jeopardise criminal investigations into the deal would not be heard in public.

The other two members of the presiding panel are Herman van Zyl of the Auditor-General's office and Silas Ramaite of the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions.

Baqwa and the Auditor-General's office are probing between 40 and 50 allegations of wrongdoing in the arms deal.

The package provides for the acquisition of four corvettes, three submarines, 30 light utility helicopters, 24 Hawk lead-in fighter trainers and 28 Gripen advanced light fighter aircraft over the next few years.

With acknowledgment to Sapa and Business Day.