From artificial intelligence and autonomous systems to Africa’s defence industrial future and the evolution of military and commercial aviation, the AAD 2026 Conference will tackle many of the issues shaping defence thinking across the continent.
Organised by DefenceWeb as part of Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026, the three-day conference, taking place at Air Force Base Waterkloof from 16–18 September 2026, has been designed to bring together military leaders, government officials, defence industry executives, researchers and technology specialists to examine the challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s defence and security sector.
The conference programme has been structured around three strategic themes that reflect the changing nature of warfare, the growing importance of sovereign industrial capability and the increasing role of aviation in Africa’s defence and security landscape.
The opening day, The Future of Warfare, explores how artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, drones, cyber operations, and electronic warfare are transforming military operations and defence planning. Drawing on lessons from current conflicts, the programme will examine how armed forces are adapting to rapidly evolving operational environments.
Day two focuses on Building Africa’s Defence Industry, with sessions examining local manufacturing, defence funding, research and development, public-private partnerships, supply chain resilience and export opportunities. Discussions will explore how African nations can strengthen sovereign capability while fostering regional collaboration and industrial growth.
The final day turns to Commercial & Military Aviation, addressing the future of aviation across the continent. Topics include maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), airspace management, unmanned aerial systems, aviation cybersecurity, sustainability and opportunities for greater collaboration between the civil and military aviation sectors.
According to Guy Martin, Editor of DefenceWeb, the conference has been designed to stimulate meaningful discussion around the issues that matter most to Africa’s defence community.
“DefenceWeb has always sought to inform and stimulate debate on the issues shaping defence and security across Africa. The AAD 2026 Conference extends that role by bringing together military leadership, government, industry and academia to examine the technologies, policies and partnerships that will define the continent’s defence future. Our aim is to provide delegates with practical insights, encourage collaboration and create conversations that continue long after the conference concludes.”
In addition to keynote presentations and panel discussions, delegates will have the opportunity to engage directly with senior military leaders, policymakers and defence industry executives through networking sessions and interactive speaker Q&A discussions.
Designed for professionals seeking more than exhibition access, conference registration includes three days of strategic conference sessions, attendance at the official AAD 2026 Opening Ceremony, three-day access to the AAD exhibition, networking opportunities with senior decision-makers and conference catering.
The AAD 2026 Conference forms part of Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026, Africa’s premier aerospace and defence exhibition, and is expected to attract delegates from across the defence, aerospace and security sectors.
The full conference agenda is available at https://aadconf.aadexpo.co.za/agenda/.
Registration is open, with Early Bird rates available until 31 July 2026.
For conference registration, programme information and sponsorship opportunities, visit:
