European security requirements increasingly blur civil and military lines. Euro Defence Expo 2026 takes place from 22 to 25 September at Messe Essen and links to Security Essen to showcase both domains.
Dates and venue for Euro Defence Expo 2026 in Essen
The event runs 22 to 25 September at Messe Essen. Opening times are Tuesday to Thursday 9:00 to 18:00 and Friday 9:00 to 16:00. The occupied halls include halls 3 and 4 plus part of the Galeria.
Sectors and exhibitor profile at EUDEX
EUDEX gathers manufacturers, military organizations and civilian security actors. Key areas represented include aerospace platforms, ground defence systems, NBC capabilities and communications electronics. The format aims to integrate civilian security technologies with military requirements.
Highlighted programme items
The EUDEX Conference by CPM focuses on the European Deep Strike Capability. Concurrently the NATO Joint Air Power Competence Centre JAPCC holds its annual conference with over 400 high-ranking military representatives from 32 NATO member nations. Other listed activities include live demonstrations, an International Diplomatic Forum, V4 Business Matchmaking, the EUDEX Forum, NBC Defence sessions and Young Innovators.
Practical logistics and event data
The fair provides dedicated live demonstration areas, a media center and exhibitor services including an online service center for stand construction and advertising. Delegation trips and matchmaking services are part of the program to facilitate business meetings.
How to prepare B2B prospecting at Euro Defence Expo 2026
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Identify priority targets Use the exhibitor list to select a concise set of target accounts. Separate military end users from civilian integrators to tailor technical messages.
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Create concise technical briefs Prepare one-page capability summaries emphasizing interoperability, compliance and measurable performance indicators. Have digital copies ready for quick transfer.
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Leverage matchmaking and delegation offers Register for V4 Business Matchmaking and delegation trips to secure meetings in advance. These channels help reach procurement and acquisition staff.
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Use conference sessions strategically Attend sessions on Deep Strike Capability and related air power topics to find decision makers and subject matter experts present at the JAPCC event.
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Plan demonstrations with clear metrics If presenting equipment, design a compact demo that showcases an operational scenario and a small set of performance metrics evaluators can judge quickly.
Numbers and visible partners
The official program notes more than 400 military representatives at the JAPCC conference and the allocation of halls 3, 4 and part of the Galeria at Messe Essen. Organizers and partners mentioned include CPM GmbH, Defence.NRW and National-Bank AG.
Closing recommendation and link
For teams active in defence and security the operational value of Euro Defence Expo 2026 lies in targeted outreach and use of formal matchmaking and demonstration slots. Check registration details and the full program at the official site http://www.eurodefenceexpo.de/defence-industry and schedule meetings before arrival.
