-
EN
- Contact
The Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX) is starting the 2026 trade fair year with strong momentum. Over 250 exhibitors are expected to attend the new international platform for the defence industry, which will take place for the first time from September 22 to 25 at Messe Essen/Germany. The trade fair concept is particularly convincing, as EUDEX will be held parallel to the Security Essen. Together, the two formats will bring together over 800 exhibitors, creating Europe's first integrated platform that combines military and civil technologies and innovations under one holistic security concept at a single location.
Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen: “With the combination of EUDEX and Security Essen, we have developed a platform that reflects the realities and requirements of modern security architecture. Military and civil security are inseparably linked today – and that is exactly what we are showcasing.” This strategic combination offers significant added value for exhibitors. They benefit from the presence of high-level decision-makers from both sectors, can present their technologies to a broader professional audience and open up new areas of business.
Total defence as a response to current challenges
The unique selling point of EUDEX lies in its total defence approach. This holistic view of security and defence corresponds precisely to current strategic requirements: from cybersecurity and critical infrastructure to traditional national defence – all dimensions are covered.
Attractive environment for exhibitors
EUDEX offers exhibitors optimal conditions. The trade fair specifically targets high-caliber audiences, including decision-makers from defence ministries and procurement organizations, representatives of the German Armed Forces and allied armed forces, as well as executives from police and security authorities. Thanks to the international orientation of the trade fair, delegations from over 30 nations are expected to attend.
Another special boost will come from the annual conference of the Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC), which will be held in Essen at the same time. More than 400 high-ranking military representatives from NATO and partner countries are expected to attend, underscoring the international relevance of Essen as a location. Additional added value results from the simultaneous staging of Security Essen, Europe's leading trade fair for civil security: Exhibitors will thus benefit from a broad and diverse range of visitors and access to over 20,000 trade visitors from the military and civil security sectors. Attractive hall space, spacious outdoor areas, and opportunities for live demonstrations on the Messe Essen grounds create an ideal presentation environment.
Strong interest from the industry
Interest in the new trade fair platform from the security and defence industry is high, underscoring the growing need for this format in Germany. Registrations range from established system houses and innovative start-ups to international corporations. Among others, Heckler & Koch, Munk Group, Scania, Nokia, Fokker, Vincorion, and BwConsulting will be participating.
Registrations still possible
Interested companies can still register for EUDEX 2026. Demand is high, so project manager Julia Jacob recommends getting in touch quickly: "The premiere of EUDEX offers not only established defence technology companies a strong platform, but also companies that intend to focus more strongly on military and defence-related fields of application in the future. Especially in a changing security environment, this opens up new potential for exchange, visibility, and business development."
Further information about EUDEX at www.eurodefenceexpo.de
