EURO DEFENCE EXPO Essen
22. - 25. September 2026 | International trade fair for defense technologies, cybersecurity, AI, and innovative security solutions

The EURO DEFENCE EXPO, an innovative trade fair for the security and defense industry, is held annually at Messe Essen. This centrally located and easily accessible venue in the heart of Essen, Germany, is unique in the country and promotes European-level exchange by integrating both civilian and military security technologies. The fair is organized by MESSE ESSEN GmbH with the goal of networking a professional audience consisting of decision-makers, experts, and users from both sectors.
The main themes of the fair include protection and effectiveness, personal equipment, research and development, logistics, leadership and communication, reconnaissance, surveillance, and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and robotics. Additionally, the EURO DEFENCE EXPO offers extensive opportunities for live demonstrations and special expert programs for land forces.
Exhibitors and visitors come from various sectors, including the defense industry, research, technology development, and both military and civilian security sectors. The diversity of participants enhances knowledge exchange, networking, and allows for the presentation of a wide range of products and services tailored to the specific needs of these industries.
Another highlight is the accompanying conference, conducted in cooperation with cpm GmbH. It brings together renowned experts and provides additional value through intensive knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. This underscores the EURO DEFENCE EXPO's unique position as the leading event for security and defense innovations in Europe.
The EURO DEFENCE EXPO is not only an independent event but also a significant part of the European trade fair calendar. It emphasizes the importance of the region as a hub for security and defense. Thanks to its strategic location in Essen, the fair is optimally accessible to national and international guests and offers a central platform to explore the latest technologies and strategies in the industry.
The EURO DEFENCE EXPO will take place on 4 days from Tuesday, 22. September to Friday, 25. September 2026 in Essen.
22.09.2026 - 25.09.2026*
Tuesday - Friday, 4 days
Audience:
professional visitors only
Cycle:
annually
2026
Local time:
09:03 h (UTC +02:00)
Essen:
Walpurga's Night
Fair location:
Messe Essen,Norbertstr., 45131 Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Hotels
for trade fair date in Essen
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Messe Essen GmbH
Norbertstr.
45131 Essen, Germany
Tel: +49 (0)201 72440
Fax: +49 (0)201 7244248
Display e-mail address
www.messe-essen.de
Fair location:
Messe Essen,Norbertstr., 45131 Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Hotels
for trade fair date in Essen
Product groups: artificial intelligence, communication systems, cybersecurity solutions, defense electronics, drone technology, military vehicles, protective clothing, sensors, training systems, unmanned systems, …
Disclaimer: No responsibility is taken for the correctness of this information. Errors and alterations excepted! Fair dates and exhibition sites are subject to change by the respective trade fair organiser.
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FAQ
Where does the EURO DEFENCE EXPO taking place?
The EURO DEFENCE EXPO fair takes place in Essen, at the Messe Essen.
When is the EURO DEFENCE EXPO taking place?
Visit the EURO DEFENCE EXPO from 22. - 25. September 2026.
How often does the EURO DEFENCE EXPO take place?
The EURO DEFENCE EXPO takes place annually.
What kind of fair is the EURO DEFENCE EXPO?
The EURO DEFENCE EXPO is an exhibition for Safety Technology, Artificial intelligence (AI) and Military Technology.