The South African defence industry is expected to achieve a R70 billion revenue target in five years, driven in part by the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 expo. The expo, held at the Waterkloof Air Force Base, showcased a range of air, ground, cyber, maritime, and space capabilities from state and private-owned aerospace and defence technology companies. The event attracted thousands of visitors and featured a spectacular display of military equipment and technology.
According to Daniel du Plessis, vice president of Africa at Milkor, the defence industry is on the verge of a significant growth spurt. He cited the success of the previous AAD expo and noted that the industry exported over R10 billion worth of equipment to other countries last year. Du Plessis expressed confidence that the industry can reach the R70 billion revenue target within the next five years, driven by collaboration with international companies and a focus on refining products for operational use.
Milkor, a leading South African defence manufacturer, has emerged as a diamond sponsor of the AAD expo for the fourth consecutive time. The company showcased a range of defence solutions across various domains, including air, land, sea, and cyber. Du Plessis highlighted the significance of the expo, describing it as a landmark event on the African continent that brings together defence industries and forces from across the region.
Milkor has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Safran, a major French international high-technology group. The MOU aims to foster collaboration between the two companies, with a focus on advancing operational platforms and exploring new technologies. Du Plessis noted that the partnership with Safran is a significant privilege for Milkor, and will help drive growth and innovation in the South African defence industry.
The Milkor 380, a medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), was also showcased at the expo. Designed, developed, and manufactured by Milkor, the Milkor 380 is the largest drone developed and manufactured on the African continent. The UCAV is primarily designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike missions, and has been operationally deployed.
In addition to its partnership with Safran, Milkor has also collaborated with MBDA, a European leader in missile and systems design. Du Plessis emphasized the importance of international cooperation in driving growth and innovation in the South African defence industry. He noted that the country has significant skills and expertise, and should pursue partnerships with international companies to leverage these strengths.
The AAD expo provided a platform for South African defence companies to showcase their capabilities on an international level. Du Plessis noted that the expo highlighted the country's defence industry capabilities, and demonstrated its potential for growth and innovation. The SANDF has recently selected the Milkor BushCat for border patrol operations, following a competitive bidding process and tender.
Key points
- The South African defence industry is expected to achieve a R70 billion revenue target within five years.
- Milkor has signed an MOU with Safran to foster collaboration and drive growth in the defence industry.
- The AAD expo showcased a range of air, ground, cyber, maritime, and space capabilities from state and private-owned aerospace and defence technology companies.
