About this expo
Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo 2026 is recognized as Africa's sole integrated aerospace and defence event, uniquely blending a comprehensive trade exhibition with an engaging air show. Taking place from 16 to 20 September 2026, at Waterkloof Airforce Base in Pretoria, South Africa, this biennial expo is considered a national asset, significantly boosting South Africa's GDP during its operational years.
The expo showcases a broad spectrum of advancements across the aerospace, defence, and security industries. Exhibitors will present innovations in civil and military aviation, UAVs, land systems, robotics, homeland security, surveillance, space technologies, weapons, armaments, combat systems, MRO, airport equipment, air traffic management, simulation, training, energy, humanitarian logistics, and firefighting. Specific exhibit sectors for 2026 also include various aircraft types, defense systems, security & emergency response, advanced materials & technology, and maritime & naval technology.
AAD 2026 targets a professional audience, including industry experts, military delegations, manufacturers, procurement specialists, and innovators from air, land, and sea domains. Admission is exclusively for accredited professionals and business visitors operating within the aerospace and defence industry. Concurrent events include a three-day trade exhibition (16-18 September 2026), a two-day public air show (19-20 September 2026), and the AAD 2026 Conference (16-18 September 2026) with themes like "The Future of Warfare," "African Defence Industry Showcase," and "Commercial & Military Aviation." The event also features a Business Matchmaking program and a Youth Development Program.
Highlights
5 items- AUMA listed.
- Held at Waterkloof Airforce Base, Pretoria, South Africa.
- Featured 259 exhibitors from 39 countries (2024).
- Attracted 22,970 trade visitors (2024).
- Includes a three-day trade exhibition, a two-day public air show, and the AAD 2026 Conference.
FAQ
4 questionsWhen and where does Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo 2026 take place?+
The event will take place from 16 to 20 September 2026, at Waterkloof Airforce Base in Pretoria, South Africa.
Who organizes the AAD Expo?+
The AAD expo is owned by the South African Department of Defence and Military Veterans, in partnership with Armscor, the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA), and the Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industries Association of South Africa (AMD). The organizer is AADEXPO AAD Office.
What industries and products are covered at AAD 2026?+
AAD 2026 covers aerospace, defence, and security sectors. Key areas include civil and military aviation, UAVs, land systems, robotics, homeland security, space technologies, weapons, MRO, airport equipment, air traffic management, simulation, training, energy, humanitarian logistics, and firefighting.
How can I attend or exhibit at AAD 2026?+
Admission is restricted to accredited professionals and business visitors operating within the aerospace and defence industry. This includes official delegations, exhibitors' guests, media, and trade visitors. Further details can be found on the official website: https://www.aadexpo.co.za.