Paramount Group to celebrate SA’s leading role in the global defence industry at AAD 2016

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Following a period of increased innovation and global growth, Paramount Group will exhibit at the African Aerospace and Defence Expo (AAD 2016), taking place from 14-18 September, at Waterkloof Air Force Base, South Africa. It will announce new industry partnerships, unveil new technologies and demonstrate the capabilities which have enabled it to become one of the world’s fastest growing and leading innovators in the aerospace and defence industry.

Paramount Group, Africa’s largest privately owned defence and aerospace company, develops cutting-edge African technologies to stabilise conflicts around the globe. Its air, land and sea platforms are trusted by government and peacekeeping forces across five continents and noted for their sophisticated adaptability and affordability, making them exceptionally suited for asymmetrical warfare.

Paramount’s latest innovation, the Mbombe 8, an 8×8 wheeled infantry fighting vehicle, representing the pinnacle of land systems technologies, will be unveiled for the first time on African soil.

Ivor Ichikowitz, founder and executive chairman of Paramount Group, said: “Paramount’s success is remarkable because it’s an African story. In 10 short years, we have grown out of South Africa and into a global technology and manufacturing powerhouse. Our world-class platforms contribute to the stability of communities, the fight against terrorism and the protection of natural resources in more than 30 countries around the world. This week at AAD, we’re excited to showcase the innovations that have enabled our success and announce the next chapter in our global growth.”

“AAD 2016 is the premier event of the continent to showcase its defence and aerospace prowess. It presents us with an important opportunity to celebrate our global achievements locally. The defence industry employs 15 000 people in South Africa and has a total turnover of R19 billion. Every advanced economy in the world has a strong defence and aerospace industry. Many technologies that are developed in the defence and aerospace sectors are beneficial to other industries and the general public. It is an industry that is characterised by highly skilled people and presents exciting career opportunities. We are proud to support the show and showcase Africa’s innovations that are admired globally,” Ichikowitz added.

The company has grown significantly in recent years, thriving in an increasingly competitive manufacturing market, with new production facilities in Central Asia, local manufacturing with its partners in the Middle East, and it has commenced construction of an aircraft factory which will be the most modern and advanced of its kind in Africa, and will produce the unique African designed and built multi-role Mwari aircraft.

Partnerships with industry and government have expedited Paramount Group’s global growth. Current partners include governments in the Middle East and Central Asia, as well as industry heavyweights like Boeing, Airbus Group and QinetiQ. The business model is proven to bolster international knowledge transfer, economic development and national security. It facilitates the design and manufacture of localised air and land technologies which meet unique operational requirements, thereby reducing production time and cost.

In each of its global manufacturing markets, Paramount Group represents significant inward investment. The company employs 3 000 people across 16 facilities in South Africa and abroad.

Ichikowitz concluded: “Our exhibition at AAD will demonstrate why we have grown to become a global leader in defence and aerospace. We remain as passionate as ever about bringing African technology to the world and we’ll announce the partners and innovations which will enable us to grow further still. The future is bright for Paramount Group and we’re proud to celebrate this success in South Africa, where our roots are.”