The event also commemorates South African troops who sank in the Indian Ocean exactly 100 years ago while on their way to the First World War.
The families of some of the soldiers who drowned in the Indian Ocean in 1917 converged in a marquee at the stadium.
Parades by the navy, army and air force took place ahead of the president's speech.
Zuma has been accompanied by Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.
In 2012, Zuma proclaimed that 21 February will be observed and commemorated as Armed Forces Day to expand public understanding of the military’s role and its purpose to society, as well as to demonstrate the military combat readiness against threats and support government during peace time.
In 2012, Zuma proclaimed that 21 February will be observed and commemorated as Armed Forces Day to expand public understanding of the military’s role and its purpose to society, as well as to demonstrate the military combat readiness against threats and support government during peace time.
