Europe’s Security Dialogue Intensifies Ahead of EUDEX 2026

The distinguished political gathering in Berlin signals a strong momentum for the Euro Defence Expo as members of industry, government and military leaders align on Europe’s ever-evolving security structures.

As of today, 200 days until the opening of the Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX), the new international trade fair for the security and defence industry has already sent a clear political message. At a Parliamentary Evening hosted at the Deutsche Parlamentarische Gesellschaft in Berlin, around 120 high ranking representatives from politics, the military, public administration and industry came together to discuss the future structure of Europe’s security architecture.

The event reflects the rapidly evolving geopolitical environment in Europe and connects directly to the ongoing debate regarding Germany’s “Zeitenwende”. With this in mind, the Euro Defence Expo is positioned as more than a traditional industry meeting. Rather, it aims to become a platform for strategic dialogue, technological innovation and closer cooperation between civil servants and the military across Europe.

Through this gathering of influential individuals, EUDEX demonstrated its ambition to act as a strategic catalyst for discussions around security policy in Germany and the European Union as a whole.

North Rhine-Westphalia as a Key Location for Security and Defence

The evening was opened by Nathanael Liminski, Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and Head of the State Chancellery.

Nathanael Liminski, Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

In his address, Liminski highlights the crucial role of North Rhine-Westphalia within Europe’s evolving security landscape and emphasises the region’s industrial strength as a foundation for defence capability.

“Without industrial substance there can be no military capability. North Rhine-Westphalia is the industrial backbone of the Zeitenwende. With the Euro Defence Expo, an independent German trade fair format for the security and defence industry is emerging – a strong signal of European responsibility and technological competence.”

His remarks reinforce the importance of linking industrial innovation with political strategy in order to respond effectively to current and future challenges.

Homeland Defence Division Addresses Emerging Threats

Another of the evening's key contributions came from Major General Andreas Henne, Commander of the Homeland Defence Division of the German Army.

In his presentation titled “Homeland Defence Division – Response to Threats Against Germany”, Henne outlined the measures currently being implemented by the German Army to strengthen national defence capabilities. He stressed the increasing relevance of homeland defence structures within Germany’s overall security strategy:

“Homeland defence is a crucial component of Germany’s national defence.”

His remarks provided insight into how military structures are adapting to new scenarios which pose a threat along with evolving security dynamics in Europe.

Strong Support for Essen as Host City

Following the official programme, guests continued their discussions during a networking reception. Alongside broader security policy themes, the conversation also highlighted the significance of Essen as the host location for the Euro Defence Expo.

With its modern infrastructure and extensive experience in international B2B trade fairs, Messe Essen offers an ideal environment for a new exhibition format focused on the security and defence sectors. The venue already hosts globally recognised events such as Security Essen and the Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC) conference.

Essen’s Mayor Thomas Kufen also emphasised the city’s standing reputation in the security sector: “For decades Essen has been an internationally recognised location for security trade fairs. With the Euro Defence Expo, this profile is now being expanded to include the defence sector. The combination of strong industry partners, high logistical performance and the experience of Messe Essen creates ideal conditions for a new platform with European impact.”

About the Event

The Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX) will take place from 22 to 25 September 2026 at Messe Essen in Germany.

The event aims to bring together political leaders, defence experts, technology companies and international stakeholders to discuss innovations and the future direction of European security and defence.

More information can be found at https://www.eurodefenceexpo.de.