Tag Archives: Africa Aerospace and Defence
South Africa all set to host premier global aerospace and defence trade exhibition
The 12th biennial Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) trade exhibition and air show, with the theme ‘Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions, Showcasing Innovation and Capability,’ will take place at Air Force Base Waterkloof on the outskirts of the City of Tshwane from 18 to 22 September 2024. It is considered to be one of the top six events of its kind in the world and is the only aerospace and defence exhibition and air show on the continent.
The AAD is presented in partnership with South Africa’s Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Association (AMD), the Armaments Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (Armscor), and the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA), in collaboration with the South African Department of Defence and Military Veterans (DOD).
More than half of the available exhibition space has already been booked and confirmed. This reflects a significant vote of confidence in the event that has continued to record success and is truly in a class of its own. The event will see exhibitors coming from several countries, including the United States, Belgium, and China. The exhibitors include Sweden’s SAAB, Airbus, Turkish Aerospace Industries, and L3Harris Technologies. The event has been designed to provide the perfect platform to strengthen existing and establish new partnerships within the defence and related industries.
This year’s AAD will introduce several hubs that showcase the latest innovations. For instance, there are Energy and General Aviation hubs, as well as a third hub that features drone and anti-drone technologies. Drone operators can book space to demonstrate live at AAD through the UAV Hub online by visiting www.aadexpo.co.za.
“As organisers, we want to position the country as the global pinnacle of innovation, excellence, and a preferred investment destination. We anticipate that more than 30,000 trade visitors will engage with over 300 exhibitors. Visitors can also attend our maiden conference edition to hear thought leaders in the industry, academia, and the defence sector provide insights into topical issues that directly impact the industry. Furthermore, we project at least 60,000 visitors will attend the public air show days to witness the exhilarating aerobatics spectacle,” says Ms Nakedi Phasha, Exhibition Director at AA
Another unique initiative of the AAD is its youth development programme (YDP). This sees youth from disadvantaged and marginalised communities being exposed to science and technology disciplines and related career opportunities. In 2022, AAD hosted over 9,000 learners through its YDP initiative. For this year’s event, 12,000 learners from across all nine provinces are expected to descend on the base to benefit from this impactful programme.
The economic impact that the AAD has on South Africa’s economy is significant and makes this event stand out. International visitors to AAD 2022 contributed over R135 million to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while public and trade visitors generated a staggering R150 million in revenue. R65 million of taxation revenue was raised and more than 1,350 jobs created, which bodes well for the importance of this notable showing on the Southern African landscape.
“Looking to the future, our focus will be on further increasing international participation, fostering collaborations, and exploring new sponsorship and partnership opportunities to grow the event’s footprint into Africa. We want to provide our partners with a premier event that contributes to the global aerospace and defence market,” concludes Ms Phasha.
For exhibitors keen on securing their space, contact us as soon as possible (www.aadexpo.co.za). Space is running out with just a few stands available for booking. Tickets will go on sale soon for the general public. So, if you are an enthusiast or a newcomer to the aviation sector, join us as we look forward to a truly spectacular event.
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ENQUIRIES
Ms Nakedi Phasha Exhibition Director:
Email: expodir@aadexpo.co.za
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Also Read About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022) and USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD
USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD
Also, see About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022)
With this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade and Airshow around the corner. The anticipation is now here!
A number of United States Aircraft will be coming to Airforce Base Waterkloof from the 21-25th of September 2022.
First on the list is the Boeing C17 Globemaster, the McDonnell Douglas/Boeing C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft that was developed for the United States Air Force (USAF) from the 1980s to the early 1990s by McDonnell Douglas. There will be two C17s at this year’s AAD.
Click here to View the full Aircraft list
The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker is an American military aerial refueling aircraft that was developed from the Boeing 367-80 prototype, alongside the Boeing 707 airliner. It is the predominant variant of the C-135 Stratolifter family of transport aircraft.
The C-130J is the newest version of the C-130 Hercules and the only model in production. As of March 2022, 500 C-130J aircraft were delivered to 26 operators in 22 countries.
The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus is an American military aerial refueling and strategic military transport aircraft developed by Boeing from its 767 jet airliner. In February 2011, the tanker was selected by the United States Air Force (USAF) as the winner in the KC-X tanker competition to replace older Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers. The US Air Force intends to procure 179 Pegasus aircraft by 2027.
The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. Sikorsky submitted the S-70 design for the United States Army’s Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System competition in 1972. The UH-60 will also provide an air display.
More aircraft will be added to the aircraft list soon including a number of South African Airforce Favourites.
Africa Aerospace and Defence trade show will be on 21-23 September and the two airshow days are 24th & 25th September 2022 at Airforce Base Waterkloof, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022)
The 14th Edition of Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022) is set to take place in September 2022. AAD2022 will consist of two parts, 21st to 23rd of September is the Trade days and are aimed at the Aviation and Defence specialists, The Weekend, 24th, and 25th of September are the Public days and consist of Africa’s largest Airshow. The Show is held biannually at Waterkloof Air Force Base in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. AAD is also know by many as Waterkloof Airshow
THE PREMIER EXHIBITION OF AIR, SEA AND LAND TECHNOLOGIES ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially in the City of Tshwane – South Africa’s administrative capital, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
ABOUT THE AIR SHOW AND EXHIBITION
Africa Aerospace and Defence Air show and Defence Exhibition are open to the public.
The air show comprise of a world class air demonstration, mobility track demonstrations, parachute drops, aerobatic displays and many other static displays from some of the biggest names in the aviation and defence industry who will demonstrate their latest and greatest aircraft.
There will also be organised children’s activities and attractions including a Youth Development Programme will be staged in a dedicated Pavilion with a fun fly park where the youth will have interactive activities, such as plastic model building, virtual aviation, simulator, target shooting, first-aid and crime scene investigation.
Also, read USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD
Also, read AAD 2022 Aircraft list
Public Visitor Information
Also, read Do’s and Don’ts attending an Airshow
Ticket Information
Get your Tickets now!
From Computicket in advance
Adult R200.00
Children (5 to 12) and pensioners: R100.00
At the Gate
Adult R250.00
Children (5 to 12) and pensioners: R120.00
Children under 5 are admitted free
Click the Link below to get your Tickets
Click here to get your tickets today
#AAD2022 Tickets
AAD2022 SITE MAP
DIRECTIONS TO AAD
From OR Tambo International Airport
From OR Tambo International Airport take exit 46 for R21 N towards Kempton Park / Pretoria.
Merge onto R21.
Take exit 12 for M31 / Nellmapius Drive towards Centurion.
Turn left onto Nellmapius Dr / M31.
Turn right onto Van Ryneveld Ave / M28.
From Midrand (N1)
Head northwest toward Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Turn right onto Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Take the 3rd left to stay on Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Take the 1st left onto New Rd.
Slight right to merge onto N1 towards Pretoria. Partial toll road.
Continue onto Ben Schoeman Fwy.
Take the exit towards M10.
Turn left onto M10.
The destination will be on the left.
Map
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW
- No gazebos, laser devices, firearms, knives, glass bottles, drugs, pets, braais or umbrellas may be brought onto the AFB Waterkloof’s premises
- Visitors are not permitted to bring their own alcohol to the show
- Members of the public are requested to remain within the demarcated public viewing areas
- Ear Plugs will be sold at the Waterkloof Base
- Radios capable of tuning (Scanners), will also not be allowed on the base. If radios or Scanners are found on the day it will be confiscated by ICASA.
- The flying of Drones during the event will also not be allowed.
- Visitors are welcome to bring their cameras to photograph events.
- Visitors should bring their own camping chairs and sunscreen.
- Food stalls and a beer garden will be available, but PICNIC BASKETS are welcome
- ATMs are available throughout for your convenience
- Medical/first aid facility, access for the disabled, lost child centre
- Sufficient toilets will be available.
- Come early and enjoy a full day of wonderful entertainment
- Tips for parents: Place a name and mobile number on a piece of paper and put in your child’s pocket or write your mobile number on your child’s arm.
FAQ PUBLIC VISITORS
Will public transport be available?
Yes. There Will public transport be available?
Yes. There will be limited public transport buses (Tshwane Buses) and Gautrain Buses departing from the Centurion Railway Station to the AFB Waterkloof. The buses will depart from these locations to AFB Waterkloof in the morning and will return again in the afternoon.
Can I visit the air show in the week?
No. The trade days are strictly open to trade visitors and professionals only.
Is the show the same on both days?
The format of the show is the same on both days. The only difference between Saturday and Sunday is in the flying displays.
Parking
There is ample parking for visitors and parking is free at the Base.
Can I smoke at the air show?
AAD is a no-smoking area, no smoking is permitted in any of the halls or chalets, or restaurants.
Can I bring alcohol to the Show?
No. For the safety of everyone, alcohol cannot be brought onto the Air Show grounds.
Can I bring my dog?
No pets are allowed, for safety reasons. Registered Guide Dogs, as permitted by law, are allowed.
Is there a pharmacy on site?
There are medics on-site and medical services are provided throughout. In the event of an injury or illness, please locate the Medical Centre or contact any of the Organisers or Security Staff who will arrange assistance.
What should I do if I become separated from my child?
Any lost children are taken to the Lost Children Centre (see map for location). In the event of a lost child, the adult should report it to the Lost Children Centre or Organisers Office, or locate any of the show organisers or police at the show for assistance.
Also, read Do’s and Don’ts attending an Airshow
Aircraft list & Program
The Aircraft list will only be available in September with the Flying Program will be made available Friday 23rd September
Below are Photos from AAD2018
67 Days to AAD 2022 Media Briefing
The countdown to 67 days to Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade exhibition and Airshow which will be held at Airforce Base Waterkloof in the city of Tshwane from 21-25 September 2022.
A media briefing plus a youth development familiarisation to the world of aerospace was held at 28 Squadron “Portamus” (We Carry” home of the Lockheed Martin C130BZ under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Nandi Zama.
The Deputy Chief of the South African Air Force, Major General Innocent Buthelezi welcomed the guests on behalf of the Chief of the South African Air Force, Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo and said that he is happy that an event of this magnitude had been dissected, reinvented, finally comes to life.
“When we started there was still so much uncertainty on whether we would be able to host the 11th edition. The pandemic still was at its worst and we watched and waited as we gathered every pronouncement made by the World Health Organisation and our Department of Health.
The Deputy Chief of the SA Air force mentioned that he personally likes the theme of this year’s AAD which is: exploring new paths, sharing solutions and showcasing innovation and capabilities.
“For the first time in the history of AAD, we have secured the express permission for the presence and use of Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) or drones during the show. It is evident that the future is upon us and still coming at us at the speed of light. Innovation is coming from young minds, minds that can still dream big.
Invited guests witnessed the signing of agreements between the AAD and the City of Tshwane, Gautrain and the South African Airways, we are assured of the success of AAD2022,” said Major General Buthelezi
The 67 learners from Mshuluzani Mayisela Primary School from bronkhorstspruit and said, “these learners are fresh, impressionable minds, we aim to ignite the spark of aviation in their minds so that they can always remember that they were part of this august moment,” he said
The Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, Mr Randal Williams welcomed the AAD team to the City of Tshwane and said, “we are thrilled to be associated with the AAD, what is interesting is that it showcases the latest technological innovations.
Ms Nompaza Ndlovu, the chairperson of AAD said, “this is a new dawn as we slowly recover from the shackles of the pandemic, I am pleased that we are back in action because we will bring all the strategic partners together to realise what we have been looking forward to, the best AAD this year,” she mentioned.
Foreign airforces have been invited to the event with a couple already committing their presence at this year’s AAD.
Obviously we will know closer to the event who’s who that will be at AAD 2022. Ticket sales and vendor applications will also be available in August next month.
Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade exhibition and Airshow will run from 21-25 September 2022.
AAD 2022 Aircraft list
To be finalized in September 2022
This is a preliminary list of aircraft to be expected to be seen at Africa Aerospace and Defence 2022.
This is not the final list and is based on speculation
Aircraft can be added or removed or even no-show at all.
For the official aircraft list please click here
Ticked information click here
Aircraft list as Compiled by Aviation Central
The list is not final and will change
| Aircraft | Country of Origin | Company / Air Force | Confirmed Yes / No / TBC | Flying / Static |
| Lockheed L100 | South Africa | SAFAIR | Yes | Flying |
| Boeing 738 | South Africa | FlySafair | Yes | Flying |
| P51D Mustang | South Africa | Master Power Technologies | Yes | Flying |
| 2 x C-17 Globemaster | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| Lockheed C130J | USA | USAF | Yes | Static/TBC |
| KC-135R | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| KC-46 Pegasus | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| UH-60 | USA | USAF | Yes | Flying |
| MQ-9 | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| Silver Falcons | South Africa | SAAF-Central Flying School | Yes | Flying |
| Rooivalk | South Africa | SAAF-16 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| Aero L29 | South Africa | Hangar 51 | Confirmed | Flying |
| YAK 52 | South Africa | Hangar 51 | TBC | Flying |
| BK117 | South Africa | SAAF-15 Squadron “Charlie” Flight | Yes | Flying |
| SAAB Gripen | South Africa | SAAF- 2 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| BAE Hawk MK120 | South Africa | SAAF- 85 Combat Flying School | Yes | Flying |
| T6 Harvard | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette II | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| SAPS Airwing Sovereign | South Africa | SA Police Airwing | Yes | Flying |
| Goodyear Pitts | South Africa | Aerobatics Unlimited | Yes | Flying |
| Oryx | South Africa | SAAF | Yes | Flying |
| Agusta A109LUH | South Africa | SAAF | Yes | Flying |
| Kudu | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Bosbok | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Cessna C185 | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Westland Lynx Mk300 | South Africa | SAAF-22 Squadron | TBC | Static |
| Casa 212 | South Africa | SAAF-44 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Cessna 208A Caravan | South Africa | SAAF-41 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Lockheed C130BZ | South Africa | SAAF- 28 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| Beechcraft KingAir 200 | South Africa | SAAF- 41 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Casa 212 | Zimbabwe | Airforce of Zimbabwe | Yes | Static |
| Karakorum K-8 | Zimbabwe | Airforce of Zimbabwe | Yes | Flying |
| Puma | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Confirmed | Flying |
| Puma Flying Lions | South Africa | Academy Air | Yes | Flying |
| Extra 330 | South Africa | Iveco Extras | Confirmed | Flying |
| Piper PA-31 Navajo | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Piper Cherokee 180 | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Enstrom 280FX Shark | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static/TBC |
| Enstrom 480B | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static/TBC |
| Beechcraft B55 Baron | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Stemme S 15-1 ASP | South Africa | Private | Yes | Static |
| AHRLAC | South Africa | Paramount Group | TBC | Static |
| Tiger Moths | South Africa | Classic Flying Collection | Yes | Flying |
| L39 Albatross | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Raptor RVs | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Hired Gun Pitts | South Africa | Academy Air | Yes | Flying |
| Motor Gliders | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Magni Gyrocopter | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
AAD 2022 Media Launch
We are exactly 137 days to go until AAD 2022 officially opens its doors to the world and it is indeed an exciting occasion to be launching AAD 2022 during Africa month as Africa’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition and only one of its kind, which boasts a combined exhibition of air, sea and land technologies, a static aircraft display and an air show.
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AAD 2022 OVERVIEW
The 2018 edition ended on a positive note, and the organisers have been preparing for the 11th edition which was deferred in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
With that said, I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the plans and theme for AAD 2022.
The upcoming AAD will be hosted from the 21 – 25 September 2022 at the AFB Waterkloof in Tshwane. The format will again comprise of three trade days and two air show days which will consist of elements:
- Indoor and outdoor exhibitions
- A hospitality chalet line
- Static aircraft park
- Capability demonstrations and displays
- Parallel events with conferences, seminars and B2B meetings.
AAD will once again give exhibitors and trade visitors a unique opportunity to interact directly with various stakeholders over the trade days and allow for the public to witness the spectacular display of the Aviation Sector and Airforce.
The planning for AAD 2022 is well underway, with over 50% of the exhibition space booked. We are happy to announce the following National Pavilions confirmed namely, USA, Turkey, Italy, UK, Belgium, China, India and Pakistan —- and we look forward to announcing more country pavilions.
AAD 2022 THEME
The disruption and resounding impact that covid caused the world was on a large magnitude we never imagined-……….
This was the driving force for the organising team to relook at the strategy for AAD future exhibitions……..
AAD is coming from an era of unlocking the aerospace and defence potential and we are now moving into a new era
Theme for AAD 2022
Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions and Showcasing Innovation and Capabilities.
And as part of our diversification strategy, AAD will expand the Exhibitor, Trade Visitor, Delegation and Stakeholder profiles which focuses on entering new markets and exploring new paths.
We invite new players in the Oil & Gas, Mining and Energy sectors to participate at AAD 2022.
Returning to AAD 2022, is the African Unity Pavilion and we are engaging with our partners in the African Union to make this a reality, with more countries and an improved partnership. The African Unity Pavilion is crucial as we work towards implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement which was launched in January last year.
AAD will create significant opportunities for manufacturers to interact and share solutions with potential clients, generate business 2 business linkages and form strategic partnerships between countries, institutions, and stakeholders. As part of the exhibition, we will be hosting three conferences over the three trade days in parallel to the exhibition.
And topics will include:
- Cyber security
- UAVS
- Medical
Lastly we will,
Showcase Innovation and Capabilities…The global aerospace and defence industry has developed cutting edge technology over the years and is Apex to the ecosystem. AAD will afford exhibitors locally and internationally the platform to showcase their innovative capabilities.
And as part of this, AAD will be launching Innovation Hubs.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
AAD 2022 will present a world class Youth Development Programme which supports the strategic intent of AAD in creating awareness about careers in the aerospace and defence sectors to the youth of South Africa. The YDP Chairperson will give an update this morning on the plans for AAD 2022.
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COVID – 19
As more and more people are getting vaccinated globally, with South Africa having passed the 30-million-mark, we welcome the announcement by the President of South Africa to lift the national state of disaster on Covid-19 in April.
— All health and safety standards will remain top priority for the organisers to ensure that we deliver a safe and business conducive environment for exhibitors and stakeholders.
CONCLUSION
We are confident that the 11th edition will allow participants to maximize their potential and bring even more trade visitors and delegations which are a crucial factor in the exhibition’s success.
We anticipate that AAD will contribute over R1 billion to the South African economy and create over 2, 000 new jobs. The 2022 event is expected to kick start the industry’s recovery programme and the recovery will translate into jobs, more opportunities for SMMEs and contribution to the GDP.
Exhibition bookings are open and we invite you,… exhibitors, sponsors and stakeholders to secure your place at Africa’s largest gathering of decision makers, innovators, government, manufacturers and buyers on the African continent.
On behalf of the AAD organisers, we look forward to welcoming you to the beautiful City of Tshwane on the 21st of September to the 11th edition of AAD 2022.
All Systems go for AAD 2022
It is all systems go for the return of the Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (AAD) in September 2022. With 22 years since its inception, AAD has been instrumental in unlocking the growth of the local, regional and even the international aerospace and defence industries.
This being the 11th edition, AAD2022 will once again be held at its home base, Air Force Base Waterkloof 21 to 25 September 2022 in the City of Tshwane. The event will follow its tradition format of three trade days followed by two public air show days. The South African President, Hon Cyril Ramaphosa recently (on 5 April 2022) announced the lifting of the national state of disaster which – according to AAD organisers, cements their readiness to deliver another sterling event.
“As organisers we are taking every step to ensure the safety of guests, exhibitors, trade visitors and participants,” said Sandile Ndlovu, Executive Committee Chairman AAD 2022.
“The lifting of the state of the national disaster eases our preparation and planning, and it will allow us to move swiftly in finalising our official programme of events, delegations and other planned activities for AAD 2022. A detailed Standard Operating Procedure will be communicated once the Government regulations are in place, in the next 30 days. We look forward to welcoming everyone back soon”, concluded Ndlovu.
AAD – a gateway into the African market – is the largest Defence and Aerospace exhibition on the African continent and has been an important platform for international players to showcase innovation and capability.
Standard rates for bookings are still open and will end on 30 April 2022, when new tariffs will apply.
SPACE AND EXHIBITION ENQUIRIES
For more queries please contact:
Acting Exhibition Director
Michelle Nxumalo
expodir@aadexpo.co.za
Sales and Administration
Busisiwe Nhlanhla
sales@aadexpo.co.za
Sponsorships and Branding
Nakedi Phasha
marketingcomms@aadexpo.co.za
Finance and Administration Manager
Portia Ngobeni
finance@aadexpo.co.za
Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 to be showcased at Lanseria International Airport
| Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 to be showcased at Lanseria International Airport from 24th to 26th March |
The organisers of the AAD Expo are excited to announce a new event on their calendar, Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 which will be hosted on 24 to 26 March 2021 at Lanseria International Airport (Lanseria). Leading up to Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo in September 2022, AAD continues to create platforms that will promote innovation and capabilities within the defence and aviation industry.
The Aerospace and Defence Tradeshow 2021 (ADTS 2021) is about exploring new paths, sharing solutions and showcasing innovation beyond Covid-19. Accessible to trade visitors only, the event will be industry focused and aptly emphasise industry capabilities and technologies that emanated from the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic. ADTS 2021 will include business to business meetings, onsite capability demonstrations for aircraft and UAVs and a conference. Parallel to the Lanseria event program, traders can also expect a fully-fledged display of Land forces innovation and capability demonstrations at the Gerotek Testing Facility. Located in the West area of Pretoria, Gerotek offers a variety of testing and capability demonstration set to marvel participants.
ADTS 2021 is set to bring together approximately 150 exhibitors consisting of 80% local industry and 20% international industry including the Defence and General Aviation industry, Airports, UAV/Drone operators, Security System Operators (Cybersecurity, Crowd Control, etc), Medical Supply Companies , Support and Logistic services to name but a few. This experience gives the South African and International defence and general aviation industries an opportunity to showcase their products and services, while also engaging in dialogue and discourse on what is pertinent to their industries.
“The hosting of AAD events, for the past 21 years, has made a significant contribution to the growing South African economy and that of its neighbouring countries through leveraging intellectual property into tangible products and export contracts. We will continue to create an enabling environment for dialogue in our sector. As one of our key mandates pronounces, it will remain our goal to bring together subject matter experts in thought leadership dialogues such as ADTS2021.” Said Sandile Ndlovu – Executive Chairman of AAD Expo.
The AAD Expo traditionally brings together a plethora of local and key international guests to explore and discuss opportunities on the African Continent. Through ADTS2021, AAD will entrench its position as an economic catalyst for the Defence and Aerospace industry.
About AAD
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially in the City of Tshwane – South Africa’s administrative capital, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
About Lanseria International Airport
Privatized in 1991 the airport is a secondary base for local carriers and services the general and commercial aviation business. Approximately 2.3 million passengers travel through the airport annually. Lanseria International has established itself as a niche-market boutique airport operating scheduled daily domestic routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
The airport is also the chosen international port of entry for overseas corporate and government aircraft visiting South Africa. The airport is conveniently located close to the northern suburbs of Johannesburg and Sandton business district with only 25 minutes of travel in either direction it also provides access to tourism hubs such as The Cradle of humankind, Sun City and the Hartbeespoort.
SAAF 75 best Airshow in Southern Africa to date?
Pictures by Stefaan Bouwer
The flightline at Airforce Base Waterkloof in Pretoria during the early week of October 1995 saw a number of visiting military air arms from across the world, attended what was South Africa’s biggest military Airshow to date!
This was also the the 75th Birthday celebrations of the South African Air Force. A number of aircraft were painted up in special paint schemes for the celebration, including the SAAF Museums Mirage IIICZ “Black Widow”.
From the biggest Antonov A124 which brought a number of Russian Fighter jets in the back of the hold, including a Mig 29 and SU35. Both flying and on static display!
The Americans brought out all their bells and whistles including an F16, F15, KC135R Stratotanker, C130s, Lockheed C-141 Starlifter and many more!
Australia brought out a P-3 Orion and the Canadian Airforce attended with a Boeing 707.The Royal Airforce were here with the famous Red Arrows, C130, and a E-3 Sentry.
The South African Air Force put on a excellent variety of both new and old, including the Mirage F1AZ flown by Chris “Piranha” Pretorius, which he got struck by lightning during one of his solo displays during the show. It was one of the last shows the Impala MK1s being the Silver Falcons before being replaced by the then new Pilatus PC7 MkII “Astra”.
One has to ask will we ever see a show as big as this one day again?
