SIDEC Celje

The SIDEC – Slovenian International Defence Exhibition and Conference is an international trade fair and conference for the defence, security and resilience sectors. Serving as a leading platform for innovation, strategic dialogue and international cooperation, it brings together decision-makers from government, the armed forces, security agencies, research institutions and industry. Its primary focus is on cutting-edge technologies that address the evolving requirements of modern defence and security while promoting knowledge transfer between academia, industry and the public sector.

SIDEC is organised by the GOIS – Slovenian Defence Industry Cluster, Slovenia's national defence industry cluster. The organisation brings together companies, research institutions and other stakeholders from the country's defence and security sector to drive technological innovation, strengthen international partnerships and enhance the competitiveness of Slovenian industry at both the European and global levels. The event is held at the Celje Fair in Celje, Slovenia, one of the country's leading exhibition and event venues.

SIDEC covers a broad range of specialist topics, including next-generation defence technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, research and development, energy efficiency and resilient infrastructure. Particular emphasis is placed on autonomous systems and robotics, unmanned aerial, ground and maritime vehicles, advanced sensor technologies, and communications and intelligence systems. The exhibition also showcases high-performance equipment for operational personnel alongside dual-use technologies with both civilian and military applications. In the field of artificial intelligence, key areas include decision support, common operational picture generation, data analytics and autonomous systems. Additional topics include cyber defence, the protection of critical infrastructure, secure communications and the digital resilience of military networks. The programme is further complemented by research and development projects, technology transfer, demonstrators and prototypes, as well as innovative energy supply concepts based on alternative energy sources such as hydrogen. European defence strategies, procurement processes, supply chains and the financing of innovation projects also feature prominently within the conference programme.

Companies and research organisations showcase innovative products, systems and services for the defence and security sector. Exhibits include unmanned systems, robotic solutions, sensing and surveillance technologies, cybersecurity applications, communications and IT systems, AI-powered software solutions, protective and operational equipment, energy and power supply solutions, as well as research projects and technology demonstrators. As a result, trade visitors gain a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and emerging technologies shaping the European defence and security industry.

The event's highlights include specialist conferences featuring international experts, presentations of innovative technologies, live demonstrations of new systems, and networking opportunities for companies, public procurement authorities and research institutions. The emphasis is on professional exchange, fostering new partnerships and showcasing technological innovation.

Exhibitors primarily represent the defence industry, security and defence engineering, aerospace, robotics, information and communications technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, electronics, sensor technology, energy engineering, and research and development. Key visitor groups include representatives of national and international armed forces, ministries of defence and the interior, security agencies, procurement organisations, NATO and EU institutions, research organisations, universities, and senior professionals from industry and commerce.

With the Celje Fair as its venue, SIDEC benefits from a modern, high-capacity exhibition centre that provides excellent facilities for international trade events. Celje is conveniently located between Ljubljana and Maribor and is easily accessible by both motorway and direct rail services. Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is approximately one hour away by car, ensuring convenient access for visitors from Slovenia and abroad.

The SIDEC will take place on 3 days from Tuesday, 10. November to Thursday, 12. November 2026 in Celje.