5 of the best industry events for DefenceTech start-ups

For DefenceTech start-ups, attending conferences is not just about networking and showcasing products; it's about staying abreast of the latest trends, gaining insights from industry leaders, and finding opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Here are the 5 conferences that we think DefenceTech start-ups should consider attending:

1. Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI), UK

Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) stands out as a significant biennial event in the defence and security industry, facilitating crucial dialogue and collaboration among governments, armed forces, industry players, and academic institutions.

With a rich history dating back to its inception in 1999, DSEI has evolved into a global platform, attracting 1700 exhibitors from 58 countries in its 2019 edition. Through its rebranding in 2009 to Defence and Security Equipment International, DSEI has reinforced its commitment to addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities in defence and security, further solidifying its position as a premier event in the industry landscape.

Find out more at https://www.dsei.co.uk

2. SOF week, US

SOF Week serves as an annual cornerstone event for the international Special Operations Forces (SOF) community, providing a platform for learning, networking, and connecting its members.

Co-sponsored by USSOCOM and the Global SOF Foundation, this prestigious conference convenes in Tampa, Florida, drawing over 15,000 attendees. SOF Week 2024 promises notable enhancements, including an expanded exhibition hall, curated by USSOCOM Program Executive Office (PEO) areas, and a comprehensive program featuring senior keynote speakers, professional development seminars, industry engagements, business matchmaking, and non-profit initiatives.

Additionally, attendees can anticipate the thrilling Live Capabilities Demonstration, the prestigious USSOCOM Annual Awards Ceremony and Dinner, and the innovative "SOF Week Campus" situated in downtown Tampa.

This multifaceted event underscores the significance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and recognition within the global SOF community, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and innovation in defence and security operations.

See more at https://www.sofweek.org

3. Enforce Tac, Germany

Enforce Tac stands as another great event connecting experts in the field of security, offering a vital platform tailored specifically for industry professionals.

Designed "by experts, for experts," Enforce Tac facilitates direct and discreet interaction among security professionals and qualified manufacturers worldwide. The event serves as a crucial meeting point where government security professionals can access state-of-the-art equipment, training, and expertise necessary to fulfil demanding tasks.

Exhibitors at Enforce Tac showcase a comprehensive range of products, including weapons, communication systems, tactical equipment, and specialised vehicles, alongside operational clothing and training systems. With core topics spanning weapons and ammunition, optics, personal equipment, information technology, and more, Enforce Tac offers mission-critical solutions for both internal and external security needs.

Attendees have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base and forge new business connections on a global scale, making Enforce Tac an indispensable event in the security industry landscape.

Plan your attendance at https://www.enforcetac.com/en

4. International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX), UAE:

IDEX, held biennially in Abu Dhabi, stands as one of the foremost defence exhibitions worldwide, attracting exhibitors from across the globe to present the latest in defence technologies and equipment.

This expansive platform presents a significant opportunity for DefenceTech start-ups to showcase their innovations, establish partnerships, and tap into the global defence market. With an increasing number of international decision-makers, including those from the defence industry, governments, armed forces, and military personnel, IDEX offers unparalleled access to key stakeholders.

Participating in IDEX not only positions organisations as industry leaders but also facilitates engagement with global leaders, policymakers, prime contractors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), international delegations, and extensive media coverage.

IDEX remains a premier event for driving innovation, collaboration, and business growth within the defence sector.

Find out more at https://idexuae.ae

5. Defence Exhibition Athens (DEFEA), Greece

DEFEA emerges as a prominent international defence exhibition where leading companies showcase a wide array of land, naval, aerospace, national, and cybersecurity defence systems.

Scheduled for May 6th to 8th, 2025, DEFEA is organized under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of National Defense, in collaboration with the SEKPY - Hellenic Manufacturers of Defense Material Association and is executed by ROTA Exhibitions Greece.

With an impressive turnout of 346 exhibitors from 28 countries, and attracting 23,413 visitors from 91 countries, DEFEA provides an unparalleled platform for networking and collaboration. The event also draws 55 official delegations and boasts the presence of 21 ministers, deputy ministers, and chiefs of armed forces, along with 17 directorates of armaments, underscoring its significance in the global defence industry landscape.

See more at https://defea.gr


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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author:

Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a mission-driven branding and website design company that works with clients all over the world.

Over the course of his life, he has travelled to more than 60 countries across six continents, earned two Guinness World Records, completed the legendary Marathon des Sables, summited Mont Blanc and unclimbed peaks in Asia, become a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), rowed across the Atlantic Ocean and obtained a Masterʼs degree in Business Management (MA).

https://www.hiatus.design
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