The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is showcasing a broad range of India’s indigenous defence technologies at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 Exhibition in Tshwane, South Africa, as the country presents its homegrown military capabilities to an international audience.
The major defence and aerospace exhibition is being held from September 16 to 20, 2026, providing DRDO with a platform to display technologies covering air combat, air defence, surveillance, maritime security and specialised military operations. The participation also reflects India’s efforts to expand international defence cooperation and present its indigenous technology ecosystem to global partners.
Among the prominent systems being showcased is the ASTRA Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile, an indigenous air-to-air missile designed for aerial combat missions. DRDO is also displaying the Akash-NG surface-to-air missile system, highlighting developments in India’s domestic air-defence technology.
The DRDO showcase also includes the Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, which supports airborne surveillance and situational awareness, along with the Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) system for maritime-domain operations. These systems demonstrate the organisation’s work across both airborne and maritime surveillance requirements.
Other technologies being presented include the Wheeled CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle, developed for operations in environments involving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. DRDO is also showcasing advanced sonar technologies, including the Portable Diver Detection Sonar (PDDS-X) and Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), alongside an Active Protection System.
The participation at AAD 2026 places India’s indigenous defence research and development capabilities before an international defence and aerospace audience. The exhibition brings together military delegations, defence companies and technology organisations, creating opportunities for interaction and potential cooperation in aerospace, defence and security technologies.
The overseas showcase comes as DRDO continues to expand collaboration with India’s domestic defence industry. Recent initiatives announced at the DRDO-Industry Synergy Meet VIMARSH 2026 have focused on increasing the participation of MSMEs and deep-tech start-ups in defence research and development, including access to testing facilities and technology-transfer opportunities.
DRDO’s presence at the South African exhibition therefore highlights the breadth of India’s indigenous defence technology development, from air-to-air missiles and surface-to-air systems to airborne surveillance, maritime reconnaissance, CBRN protection and underwater detection technologies. The AAD 2026 showcase continues through September 20 and provides an international platform for presenting these capabilities.
Facebook Comments