Stakeholders and industry leaders to gather in Pretoria ahead of Africa’s premier aerospace and defence event

PRETORIA – Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) will mark the 100-day countdown to AAD 2026 on 8 June with a high-level stakeholder engagement and media briefing in Pretoria as preparations continue for the continent’s leading aerospace and defence exhibition and airshow.

The biennial event, now in its 13th edition, is scheduled to take place in September 2026 and is expected to attract more than 40,000 visitors per day. According to organisers, the 100-day milestone serves as a key engagement opportunity for government representatives, industry stakeholders, diplomatic missions, strategic partners and the media.

Minister to deliver keynote address

The countdown event is expected to host approximately 150 senior guests and will feature a keynote address by South Africa’s Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga.

Organisers say the gathering will provide an opportunity to highlight progress towards AAD 2026 and reinforce the exhibition’s role as a platform for collaboration across the aerospace, aviation, maritime and defence sectors.

Media briefing to provide event update

Following the celebration, members of the media will attend a briefing at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices in Pretoria. AAD representatives and partners are expected to provide updates on preparations for the exhibition, programme developments, industry participation and expectations for the event.

The briefing will also offer opportunities for engagement with AAD leadership and partners regarding the exhibition’s contribution to innovation, collaboration and industry growth across multiple sectors.

Event details

100-Day Celebration

• Date: 8 June 2026
• Venue: CT Hotel, Pretoria
• Time: 09:00–14:00

Media Briefing

• Date: 8 June 2026
• Venue: GCIS, Pretoria
• Time: 14:00

AAD remains Africa’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, bringing together government, military, commercial aviation and industry stakeholders from across the continent and internationally.