African Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 drew just under 300 exhibitors and nine national pavilions. CAASA CEO Kevin Storie told African Pilot on day three that the show was progressing well. Storie is also Exco Chair, while CAASA is a lead partner for the event.
Japan, Switzerland and Romania were among five new entrants.
More Than Defence
Storie said many of the systems on display had applications beyond defence, including humanitarian operations, general aviation and the wider aerospace sector.
Space companies were also exhibiting, showcasing satellite and related technologies.
He also welcomed the Bell 222 venture announced by Peregrine, saying the combination of the two platforms could support manufacturing and design capability in South Africa.
The GA Park
The General Aviation Park was in its second edition and included weight-shift microlights, helicopters and a flight simulator that Storie described as world-class.
He said he would like to see the GA Park in a more prominent position at the next event and hopes it can grow to 30 or 40 aircraft. Several South African manufacturers also had substantial stands elsewhere in the exhibition.
How the Partnership Works
AAD is held every two years and 2026 marked its 13th edition, 25 years after the event began.
CAASA looks after the general aviation and civilian side, while AMD and Armscor bring in the defence element. The Department of Defence is the fourth partner through an MOU.
Storie said the partnership structure makes AAD a national event supported by Parliament.
12,000 Learners
Youth development was a major focus at AAD 2026. TETA sponsored the programme for the first time, while CAASA’s status as a public benefit organisation has helped attract additional sponsorship.
Together, this enabled 12,000 STEM learners to attend the show.
Storie said the learners represented the future of South Africa in areas including engineering and manufacturing, and pointed to youth unemployment as an issue that should remain a priority.
Looking to 2028
Storie expects AAD 2028 to be bigger, with a new Chief of the Air Force and TETA involved.
His main goal is to see more African countries bringing national pavilions and air assets. He pointed to aircraft and defence capability in countries including Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia and Kenya, and said drones, UAVs and space are also likely to play a larger role.
One of his highlights at AAD 2026 was seeing the South African Air Force flying and the National Defence Force in operation.
