South Africa Gears Up for Major Aerospace and Defence Expo

AAD 2026 will serve as a major platform for companies and governments to present the latest developments in aerospace, aviation, defence and security technologies.

South Africa has announced that preparations are well on track for the 13th Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition and airshow, with just 100 days remaining before the continent's largest aerospace and defence gathering opens its doors.

The five-day event, scheduled to take place from 16 to 20 September 2026 at Air Force Base Waterkloof, is expected to attract industry leaders, defence manufacturers, government representatives, technology innovators and international delegations from across the globe.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, Exhibition Director Nakedi Phasha said organisers are preparing for what could become one of the biggest editions of the event since its launch.

According to Phasha, more than 300 exhibitors from over 40 countries are expected to participate. Organisers have also extended invitations to more than 200 official delegations and hope to secure confirmations from around 100 countries.

Event to Showcase Defence, Aviation and Space Technologies

AAD 2026 will serve as a major platform for companies and governments to present the latest developments in aerospace, aviation, defence and security technologies. The exhibition is expected to generate new business opportunities, strengthen international partnerships and encourage investment across Africa's growing defence and aerospace sectors.

The first three days of the event will be reserved for trade visitors and industry professionals. Alongside the exhibition, several conferences and discussion forums will bring together regional and international experts to exchange ideas on emerging technologies, security challenges and industry trends.

One of the major attractions will be demonstrations of unmanned aerial systems and advanced drone technologies. Organisers are also planning a dedicated space hub where visitors can explore innovations in satellite and space-related technologies.

Phasha said the exhibition will feature capabilities across all three branches of modern defence operations—air, land and sea—offering visitors a broad view of current developments shaping military and civilian aerospace industries.

Public Airshow Expected to Draw Thousands

The final two days of AAD 2026 will be open to the public, giving aviation enthusiasts and families an opportunity to witness aircraft displays, aerial demonstrations and defence technology exhibitions up close. Organisers expect more than 60,000 visitors to attend the event over the five-day period, making it one of the largest public gatherings focused on aerospace and defence in Africa.

AAD has built a strong international reputation since its inception and is widely regarded as Africa's premier aerospace and defence exhibition. The biennial event brings together policymakers, manufacturers, researchers, defence officials and technology companies to discuss the future of the industry. Phasha said confirmations from international participants continue to arrive, including aircraft exhibitors and global aerospace companies. She described the event as an opportunity for South Africa to demonstrate its capabilities and strengthen relationships with partners from around the world.

Declaring the country ready to host the event, she said South Africa is open for business and eager to welcome global aerospace and defence leaders to Waterkloof in September 2026.