Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo 2026 to launch in South Africa

The 13th edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo is scheduled to take place from 16–20 September 2026 at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Tshwane, South Africa. Marking its 25th anniversary, the event features a three-day trade exhibition for professionals followed by a two-day public air show.

Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga stated that the exhibition is expected to attract over 30,000 trade visitors and dignitaries from more than 30 countries. The event aims to showcase technological innovation and facilitate international collaboration under the theme, “Africa’s Gateway to Defence and Aerospace Collaboration.”

Key exhibitors include the state-owned group Denel, which plans to display missiles, uncrewed aerial vehicles, the Rooivalk attack helicopter, and the Badger infantry fighting vehicle. South African group Paramount is expected to launch a new light armoured military vehicle. Additionally, German manufacturer General Atomics AeroTec Systems is slated to showcase the Do228 NXT twin-turboprop aircraft.