SOUTH Africa is to host the biggest aerospace and defence exhibition ever to be staged in Africa in early September, the SA Air Force said on Friday. SAAF chief Lieutenant-General Roelf Beukes said the show at Waterkloof air base near Pretoria would feature about 250 exhibitors from all over the world. Briefing reporters at the air base, he said this would be the largest event of its kind in Africa. “This unique exhibition will provide a golden opportunity for foreign exhibitors and trade visitors to establish trade links and forge new partnerships with South Africa. The show would run from September 5 to 9, and would include flying displays by aircraft from at least eight countries, including the United Kingdom and Belgium. Three days will be set aside for traders. Beukes said at least 17 air chiefs had so far confirmed their attendance, and 25 countries will either take part in the air show or be present as guests.