Africa Air Force Forum 2026
Photo credit: African Air Forces Forum 2025
The 5th African Air Forces Forum will take place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, hosted by the Côte d’Ivoire Air Force, bringing together regional and international air power leaders to address evolving security challenges across the continent. The event will examine developments in air defence and UAV capabilities, reflecting the increasing role of unmanned systems, surveillance technologies, and integrated defence networks in modern operations.
Building on previous discussions around national security, counter-terrorism, and peacekeeping missions, the forum will serve as a platform to explore how air forces are adapting to new operational demands. It will also address the importance of interoperability, defence partnerships, and the integration of advanced technologies across air domains, including ISR and unmanned aerial systems.
When is the Event?
The 5th African Air Forces Forum will be held on 01–02 December 2026.
Themes
The forum will focus on the development of African air power capabilities and procurement priorities, including combat air power, ISR and UAV systems, air mobility, and integrated air defence networks. Discussions will also examine readiness, training, and infrastructure, alongside the role of emerging technologies such as autonomous drone systems, artificial intelligence for ISR analysis, and satellite-based intelligence integration.
Key procurement and capability areas include combat aircraft, tactical air power platforms, surveillance drones, medium altitude long endurance UAVs, airborne early warning systems, and counter-UAS technologies. Additional focus will be placed on command and control systems, secure communications, and digital battlespace platforms supporting networked operations.
What’s On?
The event will feature an international conference and exhibition, providing insight into current and future air defence strategies, operational requirements, and technological developments. Attendees will have access to presentations, discussions, and technical sessions covering air power modernization and unmanned system integration.
Additional event features include an opening ceremony, an exclusive VIP dinner, and a cocktail and canapé reception, alongside structured private one-to-one meetings designed to support engagement between military stakeholders, government representatives, and industry participants.
Speakers
The forum will bring together Air Force Chiefs, senior military officials, government representatives, and international defence partners. Participants will include leadership from ministries of defence and interior, alongside directors of procurement, logistics, training, and air operations.
Industry stakeholders and global technology providers will also contribute to discussions, offering perspectives on UAV development, ISR capabilities, and integrated air defence systems.
Previous Highlights
Previous editions of the African Air Forces Forum have addressed topics such as national security, counter-terrorism operations, peacekeeping missions, and the adoption of advanced defence technologies. These discussions have highlighted the growing importance of collaboration between African air forces and international partners, as well as the increasing role of unmanned systems and surveillance capabilities in regional security operations.
Where is the Event?
Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire
Bd Hassan II
Abidjan
Côte d’Ivoire
To learn more about Africa Air Force Forum 2026, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .
