This year marked a significant milestone for one of Africa’s premier defence and aerospace events as Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) celebrated 25 remarkable years of connecting industry, government and military stakeholders from around the world. The milestone was proudly commemorated with the official launch of AAD2026, officiated by South Africa’s Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga. The celebration took place at Air Force Base Waterkloof on the evening of 15 January 2026, highlighting the event’s enduring legacy and strategic importance to the continent.
While AAD officially started in 2000, the event has its roots in earlier years when it was known as DEXSA, laying the foundation for what would become Africa’s foremost aerospace and defence exhibition. Over the past quarter century, AAD has evolved from a regional showcase into a globally recognised platform — Africa’s premier aerospace, defence and security trade exhibition and air show — facilitating collaboration across air, land and sea domains. It serves as a key gateway for defence partnerships, technology exchange and business engagement between African nations and international suppliers, manufacturers and armed forces.
Minister Motshekga’s launch speech emphasised the exhibition’s role in strengthening defence cooperation, support for local industry development and the advancement of technological innovation. Her remarks underscored the South African government’s commitment to maintaining AAD’s position as a catalyst for economic growth, defence capability enhancement and strategic dialogue across the continent.
AAD2026: Dates & Format
The Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo 2026 is scheduled to take place from 16 to 20 September 2026 at Air Force Base Waterkloof, in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. The event follows a five‑day format that has become a hallmark of AAD. The first three days, 16 to 18 September 2026, will be dedicated to trade exhibitions and conferences, providing industry professionals, military delegations, government officials and aerospace and defence specialists with opportunities for business development, high‑level discussions, technology showcases and networking. The final two days, 19 and 20 September 2026, will be open to the public, featuring dynamic aerial displays, static aircraft exhibits and live demonstrations that attract aviation enthusiasts, media and the general public.
As the only event of its kind on the African continent, AAD combines an expansive trade exhibition with a world‑class air show, featuring cutting‑edge aerospace technology, defence systems, unmanned platforms, cybersecurity solutions and land‑sea technologies.
Strengthening Defence Ecosystems
AAD’s unique format brings together business and defence communities, creating opportunities for commercial deals, joint ventures and strategic partnerships. Delegations from dozens of countries routinely attend, representing defence ministries, armed forces leadership and industry decision‑makers. Throughout its 25‑year history, the event has expanded its footprint to include dedicated programmes such as youth development initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of aerospace and defence professionals.
Looking Ahead
With AAD2026 on the horizon, organisers expect a record turnout of exhibitors and visitors alike. The continued support from the Department of Defence and Military Veterans, the Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor), the South African Aerospace Maritime and Defence Industries Association (AMD) and the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA) underscores the strategic priority placed on the event as a platform for innovation and collaboration.
As Africa’s gateway to global defence and aerospace collaboration, AAD remains unrivalled in its ability to showcase technological advancements, foster meaningful engagement and drive forward the continent’s defence and aerospace ambitions. Here’s to the next 25 years of excellence — and to AAD2026, where the future of global defence connects with Africa.
