The 12th edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition and air show, Africa’s largest and most prestigious event in the aerospace and defence sectors, is currently underway. Taking place from September 18 to 22, 2024, at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng, this biennial event has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of South Africa’s and the continent’s defence industry calendar.
A Platform for Global Industry Leaders
AAD 2024 continues its tradition of growth and excellence, bringing together major industry players from around the world. This year, over 30,000 trade visitors are expected to engage with more than 300 exhibitors, showcasing the latest technological innovations in aviation, aerospace, and defence. The event serves as a vital platform for dialogue and discourse on international defence, aerospace, and related best practices, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Held in the City of Tshwane, South Africa’s administrative capital, AAD is not only a significant event for the defence industry but also a major contributor to the country’s GDP during show years. Recognized as a national asset, the expo underscores South Africa’s strategic importance in the global aerospace and defence landscape.
Spectacular Air Show Highlights
The air show component of AAD 2024 promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The South African Air Force (SAAF) will showcase both current and historical aircraft, alongside a variety of other flying machines. The show will kick off with a mass formation of powered paragliders, setting the stage for an array of impressive displays.
Key highlights include solo performances by the SAAF’s Gripen and Hawk jet fighters, Agusta A109, Oryx, and BK117 helicopters, as well as the home-grown Rooivalk combat support rotorcraft. The Silver Falcons aerobatic team will also perform, representing the pinnacle of SAAF’s current inventory. Additionally, SAAF transports such as the C-130BZ and C-212 Aviocar will participate in a “mini-war” demonstration on Saturday.
International Participation and Unique Displays
The event will feature a solo display by the Swedish-built Gripens from 2 Squadron and an 85 Combat Flying School Hawk Mk120. Other notable solo displays include a privately owned Hawker Hunter and L-39. The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) will also make an appearance with its Y-20 multi-role transport aircraft, known as Kunpeng. Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer also deployed its C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft.
Russia will mark a big presence in this year’s AAD edition. Rosoboronexport will exhibit 250+ military, dual-use and civilian products. Most of the exhibit items were successfully used in the battlefield and are being modernized to meet the realities of today’s combat operations.
This includes armoured vehicles like the Typhoon-K, ZA-SpN Titan, 3-STS Akhmat, Spartak, Tiger mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles as well as the upgraded Linza protected ambulance vehicle, assembled entirely from Russian components under the import substitution program.
While in the aerospace domain, Russian air force delegates were in South Africa in August for Recce. Modern Russian military transport and combat aircraft and helicopters, as well as the modernized and export version of Yak-130 combat trainer are expected. In the UAV segment, the Russian exhibit features the Orion-E reconnaissance/strike UAV, Orlan-10E and Orlan-30 reconnaissance UAV systems, S-350 Skat UAV and the Kub-E loitering munition.
Other exciting displays at the AAD includes the Mwari from Paramount, Tiger Moths, Goodyear Eagles Pitts Specials, Nashua Extras, and Flying Lions Harvard aerobatic teams. The Zimbabwe Air Force (ZAF) will showcase its K-8, and other unique aircraft such as the Beech 18, Magni gyrocopter, Gazelle, Huey, and Navion display team will also be featured. The event will conclude with the serene sight of a hot air balloon on Sunday afternoon.
AAD 2024 is not just an exhibition; it is a celebration of technological advancement, international collaboration, and the rich heritage of aerospace and defence. As Africa’s premier event in this sector, it continues to inspire and drive innovation, setting the stage for future developments in the industry.