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National Security expos are a key part of our client strategies here at Karve and they present a great opportunity for innovative companies to showcase their new and exciting technologies to a myriad of potential buyers from around the world. As experienced attendees of such events and conferences like the one we published for 2024, we’ve handpicked the best conferences in the Defence & National Security industry globally so you can plan your 2025 calendar and drive the growth of your business forward.
DOWNLOAD THE NATSEC EXPOS CALENDAR 2025
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*Accurate as of 1st January 2025*
The following list is in chronological order.
(1) EUROPEAN DEFENCE AGENCY (EDA) - ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025
Location: Brussels, Belgium, Europe
Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU)
Date: 22/01/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As the European Defence Agency celebrates its 20th anniversary, this year’s conference—“New Horizons in EU Defence: Enhancing Ambitions, Accelerating Actions”—is set to be a milestone event. With record EU defence budgets and a surge in European Defence Fund (EDF) investments, the urgency for next-generation technology has never been greater.
For disruptive technology developers, this is the gateway to real opportunities. Last year, EDF allocated €1.2 billion to AI, autonomous systems, and next-gen ISR—clear signals of where defence priorities lie. With NATO collaboration deepening and emerging threats reshaping security dynamics, those at the cutting edge of innovation need to be in the room.
Karve will be in Brussels, engaging with partners and decision-makers to accelerate the future of defence technology. If you're shaping the next frontier of defence, this is the event you can’t afford to miss!
(2) AI & BIG DATA EXPO GLOBAL 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 05/02/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
AI is no longer an emerging technology—it’s the backbone of modern decision-making. The AI & Big Data Expo Global 2025 brings together industry leaders to explore how Generative AI, Machine Learning, and Data Ecosystems are transforming business and security landscapes.
For disruptive technology developers, this event is a front-row seat to the AI revolution. From next-gen neural architectures to the evolving role of human-AI collaboration, the discussions here shape the future of intelligent systems. With defence, finance, and critical industries embracing AI at scale, those developing secure, ethical, and high-performance AI solutions will find unparalleled opportunities to connect, collaborate, and lead.
Karve will be on the ground in London, engaging with pioneers defining the next era of AI. If you're driving innovation in AI and Big Data, this is an event worth attending.
(3) ENFORCE TAC 2025
Location: Nürnberg, Germany, Europe
Airport: Nuremberg Airport (NUE)
Date: 24/02/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
In an era of evolving security threats, operational superiority depends on precision, adaptability, and cutting-edge technology. Enforce Tac 2025 is the premier platform for government security professionals and armed forces, offering a highly focused environment where innovation meets real-world tactical needs.
For disruptive technology developers, this is a key opportunity to showcase advancements in protective systems, mission-critical communications, surveillance, and next-generation tactical gear. With increasing demand for integrated, high-performance security solutions, the event provides direct engagement with those shaping procurement and operational strategy.
For those pushing the boundaries of defence and security technology, this is where the future of tactical innovation takes shape.
(4) CHATHAM HOUSE - SECURITY & DEFENCE 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 06/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
In a world where technology is redefining conflict, security strategies must evolve faster than the threats they seek to counter. Chatham House’s Security & Defence 2025 offers an unparalleled forum where policymakers, military leaders, and industry experts converge to debate the future of global security.
This year’s agenda goes beyond traditional defence dialogues, exploring how advanced technologies—AI, autonomous systems, and cyber warfare—are reshaping the modern battlefield. With discussions on redesigning security architectures, arms control, and the role of industry in shaping deterrence, the event provides critical insights for those developing disruptive capabilities.
For those working at the intersection of technology, strategy, and security policy, this conference offers a rare opportunity to engage with the decision-makers shaping the next era of global defence.
(5) FUTURE SOLDIER TECHNOLOGY 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 10/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
Modern warfare is evolving at an unprecedented pace, demanding next-generation solutions that enhance soldier survivability, lethality, and operational effectiveness. Future Soldier Technology 2025 is the premier forum for exploring the cutting edge of dismounted soldier systems, where international military leaders and industry pioneers converge to discuss the latest advancements.
With plenary sessions on global modernisation programs and specialist tracks covering wearable tech, human-machine integration, and advanced weapons systems, this event offers a deep dive into the future of soldier capabilities. As militaries invest heavily in enhanced situational awareness, lightweight materials, and AI-driven combat systems, the demand for disruptive innovation has never been greater.
For those developing breakthrough technologies in soldier systems, this is where defence leaders shape requirements and industry showcases the solutions that will define the next generation of warfighters.
(6) EMERGING & DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR DEFENSE 2025
Location: Washington DC, USA, North America
Airport: Washington Dulles (IAD)
Date: 19/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As defense strategies shift from hardware dominance to software-driven warfare, the ability to harness emerging and disruptive technologies is now a decisive factor in national security. This conference focuses on bridging the gap between cutting-edge innovation and real-world military application, ensuring that defense forces can integrate AI, quantum computing, cyber resilience, and autonomous systems at the speed of relevance.
With participation from senior officials at DARPA, the Pentagon’s Chief Digital & AI Office (CDAO), and leading defense primes, the discussions will center on future warfighting concepts, interoperability challenges, and accelerating the transition of breakthrough technologies from lab to battlefield. As global adversaries aggressively pursue technological superiority, the conference serves as a strategic hub for those looking to influence next-generation defense capabilities.
For technology pioneers and industry disruptors, this is where the critical conversations on military innovation happen—a chance to connect with policymakers, defense leaders, and the architects of tomorrow’s warfighting landscape.
(7) UNDERSEA DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY (UDT) 2025
Location: Oslo, Norway, Europe
Airport: Oslo Airport (OSL)
Date: 25/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
With global military spending on undersea warfare exceeding $40 billion annually, the subsea domain has never been more contested. As great-power competition intensifies, investments in autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), anti-submarine warfare (ASW) technologies, and deep-sea surveillance systems have surged, with NATO nations prioritising seabed warfare and critical undersea infrastructure protection.
UDT 2025 is the leading European forum where military strategists, defence innovators, and naval industry leaders come together to address emerging threats in the undersea battlespace. With advances in acoustic stealth, AI-powered sonar, and multi-domain undersea operations, this event is a key opportunity to explore how the next generation of naval technology will redefine maritime security.
For disruptive technology developers, UDT offers direct access to decision-makers shaping the procurement of next-generation subsea platforms. As undersea competition intensifies, this is the forum to understand where investments are headed and how technology will shape the future of maritime dominance.
(8) HOMELAND SECURITY EXPO 2025
Location: Stockholm, Sweden, Europe
Airport: Stockholm Bromma (BMA)
Date: 26/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
With global homeland security spending projected to surpass $600 billion by 2026, governments are rapidly modernising their internal security capabilities to counter emerging threats. The Nordic region, known for its advanced defence innovation and resilience strategies, is at the forefront of this evolution, making the Homeland Security Expo 2025 a critical gathering for security professionals and industry leaders.
Bringing together armed forces, law enforcement, and technology providers, the event focuses on AI-driven surveillance, counter-drone systems, cyber resilience, and emergency response solutions. With hybrid threats, disinformation warfare, and critical infrastructure protection now top priorities, the need for cutting-edge security solutions has never been more urgent.
For disruptive technology developers, this expo provides direct access to decision-makers shaping national security investments. As nations reinforce their digital and physical defences, this is where the next generation of homeland security solutions will take shape.
(9) MILITARY ROBOTICS & AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 31/03/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
With global military robotics spending projected to exceed $30 billion by 2030, autonomous systems are rapidly transforming modern warfare. As tempo, mass, and risk reduction become critical drivers in defence strategy, the integration of AI-driven uncrewed platforms, robotic teaming, and autonomous combat solutions is no longer a question of if, but how fast.
Military Robotics & Autonomous Systems 2025 brings together leading figures from global defence organisations to explore the frontiers of uncrewed warfare. Among the key speakers, Dr. Robert Sadowski, Army Chief Roboticist at the U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, will share insights into next-generation battlefield automation. General Sir Roly Walker, Chief of the General Staff of the British Army, will address how autonomous systems are reshaping force structures and doctrine. Meanwhile, James Gavin, Head of the Future Capability Group at the UK MoD's Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), will discuss the latest procurement strategies for integrating robotics into frontline operations.
With NATO and allied nations accelerating investments in human-machine teaming, AI-enabled decision-making, and robotic combat vehicles, this event provides a critical forum to understand the next phase of warfare. For disruptive technology developers, it offers a direct lens into defence priorities, procurement roadmaps, and the key challenges shaping autonomous military capabilities.
(10) SPIE DEFENSE & COMMERCIAL SENSING 2025
Location: Orlando FL, USA, North America
Airport: Orlando International (MCO)
Date: 13/04/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As sensor fusion, AI-driven imaging, and photonic advancements redefine modern warfare, SPIE Defense & Commercial Sensing 2025 stands as the premier forum for scientists, engineers, and defense professionals developing cutting-edge optical technologies. With global defense spending on advanced sensing and imaging technologies expected to surpass $150 billion by 2027, the demand for next-generation capabilities in ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), counterterrorism, and autonomous targeting systems has never been greater.
This year’s agenda features leading experts in optics, photonics, and sensor technology, including researchers from DARPA, the U.S. Army Night Vision & Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD), and major defense primes who are driving breakthroughs in hyperspectral imaging, LIDAR, and AI-powered threat detection. The conference will also explore dual-use applications, bridging defense innovation with commercial industries, from autonomous navigation to climate monitoring and critical infrastructure security.
For disruptive technology developers, SPIE provides a unique opportunity to connect with the global leaders shaping the future of sensing and photonics. As the battlefield becomes increasingly data-driven and autonomous, this is where the next generation of intelligence and surveillance technologies will take shape.
(11) MODERN DAY MARINE MILITARY EXPO 2025
Location: Washington DC, USA, North America
Airport: Washington Dulles (IAD)
Date: 29/04/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As the U.S. Marine Corps accelerates its Force Design 2030 transformation, Modern Day Marine (MDM) 2025 is the premier showcase for emerging technologies, tactical systems, and warfighting solutions that will define the future of expeditionary and littoral operations.
With the Marine Corps shifting towards a lighter, faster, and more distributed force, this event provides direct access to warfighters, acquisitions specialists, and program managers seeking next-generation capabilities in autonomous platforms, precision fires, C5ISR, and sustainment solutions. Last year, MDM saw over 12,000 attendees, including top brass from Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) and the Office of Naval Research (ONR)—reinforcing its role as a critical innovation hub for industry and military collaboration.
For technology developers working on survivability, mobility, and domain awareness, this expo offers a rare opportunity to engage with those shaping Marine Corps procurement priorities. As the fight moves to contested littoral zones, MDM 2025 is where the next generation of expeditionary warfare capabilities will be showcased, tested, and adopted.
(12) C4ISR GLOBAL CONFERENCE 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 29/04/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
In an era where information dominance defines battlefield superiority, C4ISR Global 2025 is the premier gathering for defence leaders, technologists, and operational commanders working to advance the future of Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR).
With lessons from Ukraine reshaping NATO’s approach to digital warfare and Indo-Pacific operations highlighting the critical need for real-time decision-making in contested environments, this year’s conference will focus on interoperability, cyber resilience, and next-generation situational awareness tools. Senior military leaders and industry experts will address AI-driven battle management, secure communications, and the challenge of integrating emerging technologies across coalition forces.
For disruptive technology developers, this event offers a direct lens into the evolution of C4ISR doctrine and procurement priorities, providing unmatched opportunities to engage with those shaping the digital battlespace of tomorrow. As the demand for faster, more secure, and more integrated information networks grows, this is where defence decision-makers converge to set the agenda for the next decade of C4ISR innovation.
(13) NORDFECO ADL CONFERENCE 2025
Location: Hyvinkaa, Finland, Europe
Airport: Helsinki Airport (HEL)
Date: 05/05/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As modern warfare becomes increasingly digital, decentralized, and multi-domain, training methodologies must evolve just as rapidly. NORDEFCO ADL Conference 2025 serves as the premier Nordic forum for military training innovation, focusing on Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL), interoperability, and emerging technologies that are revolutionizing how forces prepare for modern conflict.
With NATO’s growing emphasis on interoperability and the Nordic region leading the charge in defence digitalization, this event brings together training specialists, defence technologists, and military leaders to discuss the future of AI-driven simulation, virtual and augmented reality, and next-gen wargaming techniques. The conference also provides a platform to address challenges in cross-border defence cooperation, resilience-building, and force readiness.
For developers of disruptive training technologies, NORDEFCO ADL 2025 offers a direct gateway to the organizations shaping the future of military education and warfighter preparedness. As defence forces seek faster, more scalable, and more immersive training solutions, this is where the next evolution of adaptive learning and mission rehearsal technologies will take form.
(14) SOF WEEK 2025
Location: Tampa, Florida, United States
Airport: Tampa International (TPA)
Date: 09/05/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As global conflicts evolve and unconventional threats become increasingly complex, Special Operations Forces (SOF) remain at the forefront of strategic deterrence and rapid-response missions. SOF Week 2025, the expanded successor to the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC), is now the definitive gathering for USSOCOM leadership, SOF operators, and industry innovators, providing a critical platform to drive the next evolution of mission-enabling technology and operational capability.
With USSOCOM’s $9 billion annual budget focused on advanced ISR, AI-driven decision support, human performance optimization, and next-generation mobility platforms, SOF Week delivers unparalleled insights into the acquisition roadmaps and capability gaps shaping the future of special operations. Previous years have seen participation from top defense primes, cutting-edge startups, and global SOF partners, fostering an environment where innovators can directly engage with end-users and decision-makers.
For those developing breakthrough technologies in autonomous systems, survivability, cyber warfare, and tactical networking, SOF Week 2025 is the premier venue to understand, influence, and integrate with the special operations community. In a world where speed, agility, and precision are paramount, this is where the future of SOF capabilities takes shape.
(15) NATO - MILITARY COMMUNICATIONS & INFORMATION SYSTEMS (ICMCIS) 2025
Location: Oeiras, Portugal, Europe
Airport: Lisbon Portela (LIS)
Date: 13/05/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
Held in conjunction with the 55th NATO Science & Technology Organization (STO) Information Systems Technology (IST) Scientific and Technical Committee (STC) Business Meeting, this event brings together researchers, industry innovators, and operational end-users to tackle the most pressing challenges in C4ISR, encrypted networks, AI-enhanced decision support, and next-generation military data infrastructure.
With cyber and electronic warfare threats escalating, NATO and its allies are prioritizing resilient, interoperable, and autonomous communication architectures. ICMCIS 2025 will feature insights from NCIA (NATO Communications and Information Agency) and the Portuguese Ministry of National Defence, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the architects of NATO’s evolving information warfare strategy.
For disruptive technology developers, this is the venue to showcase innovations in secure, high-speed, and AI-powered military communications, as allied nations seek next-generation solutions to counter hybrid threats and multi-domain conflicts.
(16) NATO SUMMIT 2025
Location: The Hague, Netherlands, Europe
Airport: Amsterdam Schipol (AMS)
Date: 24/06/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
In a year defined by heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats, the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague will be a landmark moment for the alliance. For the first time since NATO’s inception in 1949, the Netherlands will host 45 heads of state and government, alongside top defence and foreign ministers, setting the stage for critical discussions on collective defence, deterrence, and transatlantic resilience.
As NATO strengthens its defence posture in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, this summit will serve as a defining moment for the alliance’s future strategy, addressing topics such as multi-domain operations, hybrid warfare, and technological superiority in contested environments. With an estimated 6,000 delegates and 2,000 journalists in attendance, this will be one of the most scrutinised and impactful defence summits of the decade.
Running alongside the main summit, the NATO Public Forum will convene military leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore how emerging defence technologies, AI-driven warfare, and cybersecurity strategies will shape the alliance’s next era. With record-high NATO defence spending and increasing demands for interoperability, this is where the strategic roadmap for collective security will be charted.
(17) DALO INDUSTRY DAYS 2025
Location: Ballerup, Denmark, Europe
Airport: Copenhagen Airport (CPH)
Date: 20/08/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As Denmark increases its defence spending to 2% of GDP in line with NATO commitments, DALO Industry Days 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity for industry innovators, military stakeholders, and procurement officials to engage directly on capability development and acquisition priorities.
With over 400 Danish and international exhibitors and 4,000 attendees, this event serves as the premier defence industry forum in Scandinavia, facilitating discussions between the Danish Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO), technical specialists, and defence industry leaders. As Denmark continues to modernise its land, maritime, and air capabilities, key focus areas will include emerging technologies, sustainment strategies, and operational interoperability with NATO forces.
For defence technology developers, this is a unique gateway into the Danish and broader Nordic defence market, offering direct engagement with decision-makers shaping Denmark’s military procurement roadmap. As the region prioritises innovation-driven defence solutions, DALO Industry Days 2025 is where long-term partnerships and procurement opportunities take shape.
(18) DSEI 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: 09/09/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As one of the largest and most influential defence exhibitions in the world, DSEI 2025 will once again serve as the premier platform for global defence collaboration, capability development, and strategic partnerships. With over 2,800 exhibitors and 36,000 attendees from more than 50 nations, DSEI is a critical touchpoint for governments, industry leaders, and disruptive technology developers looking to shape the future of defence and security.
With a strong emphasis on multi-domain integration (land, sea, air, cyber, and space), AI-driven warfare, autonomous systems, and next-generation defence capabilities, DSEI is where the most advanced military technologies are showcased and procured. The UK’s growing commitment to technological supremacy and defence exports, reinforced by its £242 billion Defence Equipment Plan, ensures that this event will be a focal point for industry engagement and government-backed innovation.
For disruptive technology providers, DSEI offers direct access to high-level decision-makers, procurement specialists, and end-users across allied nations. With defence budgets expanding and operational requirements evolving rapidly, this is the definitive event to influence, network, and drive defence innovation on a global scale.
(19) AI FOR DEFENSE SUMMIT 2025
Location: Washington DC, USA, North America
Airport: Washington Dulles (IAD)
Date: 10/09/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As defense agencies accelerate AI adoption, the AI for Defense Summit 2025 serves as a pivotal forum for DoD leaders, intelligence officials, industry pioneers, and academic researchers to shape the future of AI-driven military capabilities. With the Pentagon committing over $1.8 billion annually to AI development, the role of machine learning, automation, and data-driven decision-making in national security has never been more critical.
This year’s summit will explore the practical application of AI in battlefield decision-making, predictive analytics, autonomous systems, and digital transformation across all warfighting domains. Attendees will hear from senior AI strategists from the DoD, U.S. military services, and the Intelligence Community, focusing on interoperability, ethical AI deployment, and securing algorithmic warfare against adversarial threats.
For disruptive technology developers, this event offers unparalleled insight into defense AI procurement priorities and emerging use cases. As militaries move toward AI-enhanced operational planning, human-machine teaming, and real-time threat analysis, this summit will define how AI reshapes the battlespace in the coming decade.
(20) RESILIENCE CONFERENCE 2025
Location: London, England, Europe
Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Date: September 2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
Following the resounding success of its inaugural event in 2024, Resilience Conference 2025 returns as a gathering for startups, investors, and government leaders driving the next wave of defense and security innovation. Designed as a strategic conduit between NATO, partner governments, and the global tech ecosystem, this conference is where early-stage ventures connect directly with policymakers, prime contractors, and capital to accelerate dual-use solutions for modern defense challenges.
With over £200 billion in global defense tech investment projected by 2030, the demand for AI-driven analytics, cyber resilience, autonomous systems, and next-gen communications is surging. Last year’s event saw unprecedented engagement between defense buyers and frontier technology companies, reinforcing the critical role of agile, venture-backed innovation in national security.
For disruptive technology developers and investors, this is a rare opportunity to engage with unique stakeholders, understand procurement roadmaps, and position emerging solutions at the heart of the defense innovation ecosystem. As defense modernization efforts increasingly rely on commercial and venture-led breakthroughs, Resilience Conference 2025 is where the future of defense-tech collaboration takes shape.
(21) GSOF 2025
Location: Athens, Greece, Europe
Airport: Athens International (ATH)
Date: 07/10/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As global security threats evolve, Special Operations Forces (SOF) continue to play a decisive role in strategic deterrence, counterterrorism, and hybrid warfare. GSOF Symposium Europe 2025 brings together international SOF stakeholders, industry innovators, and defense policymakers to explore the latest advancements in tactical capabilities, emerging threats, and multi-domain operations.
Held in Athens, a key NATO and EU defense hub, this year’s symposium comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension and increased emphasis on SOF interoperability across allied forces. The event will provide high-level insights from military leaders and SOF practitioners, covering topics such as AI-driven decision support, next-generation ISR, autonomous systems, and clandestine logistics in denied environments.
For technology developers and defense suppliers, GSOF 2025 offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with operational end-users and acquisition specialists. As NATO and partner nations expand their SOF capabilities to counter unconventional threats, this symposium serves as a critical forum for shaping future force readiness, technological integration, and mission success.
(22) AUSA ANNUAL MEETING 2025
Location: Washington DC, USA, North America
Airport: Washington Dulles (IAD)
Date: 13/10/2025
Industry: Defence & Security
Event Description:
As the largest land power exposition in North America, the AUSA Annual Meeting 2025 will once again bring together U.S. Army leadership, global defense industry leaders, and policymakers to define the future of land warfare. With over 700 exhibitors and 33,000 attendees, this three-day event serves as the premier platform for discussing Army modernization, acquisition priorities, and emerging battlefield technologies.
This year’s agenda will focus on next-generation lethality, maneuver warfare, soldier modernization, and multi-domain operations, with high-level participation from senior U.S. Army officials, combatant commanders, and leading defense innovators. With the U.S. Army’s $185 billion budget driving investments in AI-enabled command and control, robotic combat vehicles, and advanced soldier systems, the conference provides direct insight into where land warfare capabilities are heading.
For technology developers, defense suppliers, and innovators, AUSA 2025 offers unparalleled access to decision-makers shaping the Army’s future force structure and procurement strategies. As the battlefield grows increasingly networked, autonomous, and data-driven, this is the event where industry and military leaders converge to accelerate the next era of warfighting capabilities.
Conclusion
The Karve team hopes to see you at one of these expos throughout the year! For more information on how we can help amplify your exposure at strategically chosen conferences then reach out to info@karveinternational.com and one of our team will be in touch ASAP.
