Registration is now open for the AAD 2026 Conference, a three-day thought leadership event taking place from 16 to 18 September 2026 alongside Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 at Air Force Base Waterkloof.
Held under the theme “Africa’s Future Defence: Trends, Innovation and Opportunities,” the conference will bring together military leaders, government officials, defence industry executives, researchers, technology innovators and aviation specialists from across Africa and around the world to explore the forces shaping the future of defence, security and aerospace.
As geopolitical tensions, technological disruption and evolving security challenges continue to reshape the global defence environment, African nations are increasingly seeking innovative solutions to strengthen security, enhance capability and grow indigenous defence industries. The AAD 2026 Conference will examine these issues through keynote presentations, panel discussions and expert insights from leading voices across government, industry and the armed forces.
“The pace of change in the defence sector is unprecedented,” said Nakedi Phasha, Exhibition Director for AAD. “From autonomous systems and artificial intelligence to cyber resilience, electronic warfare and advanced aviation technologies, defence leaders are being challenged to rethink how they prepare for the future. The AAD 2026 Conference provides an important forum for these conversations while showcasing the innovation and expertise emerging across Africa’s defence and aerospace sectors.”
The conference programme is structured around three key themes:
Day One – The Future of Warfare
Examining how emerging technologies, changing operational concepts and lessons from recent conflicts are reshaping modern warfare.
Day Two – African Defence Industry Showcase
Highlighting Africa’s defence manufacturing capabilities while exploring opportunities for collaboration, investment and export growth.
Day Three – Commercial and Military Aviation
Exploring the future of aviation across Africa, including military aviation, commercial aviation, aerospace innovation and emerging technologies.
Conference delegates will also receive access to the AAD 2026 Exhibition, Africa’s premier aerospace and defence exhibition, allowing participants to experience the latest technologies and capabilities showcased by leading international and African defence companies.
The conference is expected to attract senior military officers, defence officials, policymakers, industry executives, researchers and international stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.
Milkor has been announced as the Diamond Sponsor of the AAD 2026 Conference, reinforcing its commitment to advancing dialogue, innovation and collaboration within Africa’s defence industry.
Early Bird registration is available until 31 July 2026, providing delegates with the opportunity to secure discounted rates.
A number of sponsorship opportunities also remain available for organisations wishing to align their brands with one of Africa’s premier defence and aerospace thought leadership events.
Registration and Further Information
For conference registration, programme information and sponsorship opportunities, visit:
About AAD 2026
Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is the largest aerospace and defence exhibition and air show on the African continent. Held biennially, AAD provides a world-class platform for engagement between governments, armed forces, industry leaders, technology innovators and international partners while showcasing the latest developments across the landward, maritime, aerospace and security sectors.
