Countdown to the African Aerospace and Defence 2024 Launch

Monday, June 10, marked a significant milestone when the African Aerospace and Defence, in partnership with ARMSCOR, began a 100-day countdown to the commencement of Africa’s 12th Biennial Aerospace and Defence Expo.

Scheduled to take place from September 18th to 22nd, 2024, at the air force base in Waterkloof in Gauteng Province on the outskirts of the City of Tshwane, this event promises to be a significant gathering in the realm of international defence exhibitions.

Renowned as the sole international defence exhibition in the African region, the African Aerospace and Defence showcases cutting-edge technologies spanning land, sea, and air defence sectors. It serves as a unique platform for unveiling innovative solutions and new products.

Under the theme “Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions, Showcasing Innovation and Capability,” this year’s expo underscores the AAD’s dedication to nurturing innovation, fostering global partnerships, and highlighting the remarkable capabilities within the aerospace and defence sectors.

Participating countries such as the United States, Belgium, and China, alongside numerous global companies, reflect the event’s international stature and significance.

Moreover, the expo aims to engage youth actively in the aerospace and defence sectors.

Kholisile Khumalo, Chairperson of the Youth Development Program, emphasized the program’s integral role within the AAD.

“It aims to create awareness about careers in defence and aviation sectors, provide a platform for the youth to interact with the defence and aviation sectors, assist learners in identifying bursary opportunities, support promotion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at schools,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, highlighted the importance of youth participation in her address. She noted the transformative impact of past initiatives, citing the participation of over 9,000 learners from disadvantaged backgrounds in 2022.

“This year we expect 12 000 learners from across all nine provinces to benefit from this transformative programme,” the Minister said.

The minister underscored the event’s focus on expanding international participation, forging collaborations, and exploring new sponsorship and partnership opportunities.

In anticipation of the forthcoming expo, Exhibition Director at African Aerospace and Defence, Nakedi Phasha urged excitement and anticipation, urging stakeholders to embrace the next 100 days as they prepare to showcase South Africa’s best in aerospace and defence.

As preparations unfold, the African Aerospace and Defence 2024 promises to be an unmissable event, uniting industry leaders, innovators, and aspiring youth for a transformative showcase of advancements in aerospace and defence.