The Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX) at Messe Essen is taking shape: from 22 to 25 September 2026, the new international trade fair for the defence industry will bring together companies, armed forces, procurement organisations, research institutions and political decision-makers. With a continuously growing portfolio of exhibitors, new international participation and additional specialist formats, EUDEX is further strengthening its profile as a European platform for the defence and security sector. The new trade fair will take place alongside Security Essen – the leading international event for civil security. Together, they create a unique exhibition environment in Europe, uniting civil security, military requirements and industrial expertise at a single venue.
From personal equipment and command and communication technologies to AI-powered applications, unmanned systems and industrial manufacturing, EUDEX covers the entire defence industry value chain. In total, more than 270 exhibitors will showcase their solutions across eleven product categories. Particularly strong representation can be found in the areas of Modern Industrial Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply & Support and CBRN Defence.
Further exhibitors come from the segments of Research & Development, Unmanned Systems & Robotics, Personal Equipment and Gear, Command & Communication and AI & Software. The portfolio is complemented by suppliers from the fields of Intelligence & Surveillance, Training, Vehicles & Heavy Equipment and Education & Simulation.
Joint stands bring together industrial expertise
Another key focus is the wide range of joint stands and institutional participations. Among those presenting their own exhibits are the German states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse, the Portuguese organisation Produtech under the motto “Technologies from Portugal”, Schlüsselregion e.V., the IAMHH Industrialized Additive Manufacturing Hub Hamburg and the Society for Economic and Structural Development in the Märkischer Kreis (GWS). Young companies and technology-oriented start-ups will also be given their own platform within the event. The world’s leading trade fair SCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN is also participating in EUDEX with a joint stand.
Diplomacy and defence cooperation in focus
A further security policy highlight will be the “International Diplomatic Forum” on 23 September. The format is aimed at embassies and consulates.
The programme includes a Diplomatic Briefing on “The Importance of Diplomacy for Future European Security”, a moderated round table discussion on the future of European defence cooperation, as well as exclusive guided tours of the exhibition and networking opportunities.
Parallel events facilitate further professional exchange
Running alongside EUDEX, in addition to Security Essen and the EUDEX Conference by CPM, the JAPCC Conference of the Joint Air Power Competence Centre will also take place. High-ranking military representatives from the 32 member nations are expected to attend the NATO event. Messe Essen thus offers an ecosystem for civil-military exchange and international defence cooperation that is unique in Europe.
Further information and tickets at www.eurodefenceexpo.de
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