Where defense meets security: EUDEX & Security Essen parallel trade fair – One world of security

The integrated approach to security makes EUDEX, according to the organizers and many industry representatives, an exceptional format across Europe. EUDEX (Euro Defence Expo) in Essen is considered special because it pursues a concept that is virtually unique in Europe: it combines military defense and civil security on a single platform.

By Urs Seiler || June 12, 2026

The trade fair takes a holistic view of security. Instead of presenting defense and civil security solutions separately, it brings both areas together – from traditional national defense to cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure. This approach reflects today's reality, in which military and civil security issues are increasingly intertwined, and is the reason why EUDEX is held concurrently with Security Essen.

More exhibitors, more international participation, more specialist program

The Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX) is taking shape: From September 22nd to 25th, 2026, the new international trade fair for the defense industry will bring together companies, armed forces, procurement agencies, research institutions and political representatives at the Essen Exhibition Centre.

Decision-makers come together. With a continuously growing exhibitor portfolio, new international participation, and additional specialist formats, EUDEX is sharpening its profile as the leading European platform for the defense and security sector. The new trade fair takes place alongside Security Essen – the leading international event for civil security. This creates a unique trade fair environment in Europe, bringing together civil security, military requirements, and industrial expertise at a single location.

From personal equipment and command and communication technologies to AI-supported applications, unmanned systems and industrial manufacturing – EUDEX covers the entire defense industry value chain. Overall more than 270 exhibitors will present their solutions in eleven product groups. The areas of modern industrial manufacturing, logistics, supply & support, and CBRN defense are particularly well represented.

The CEO of Messe Essen and initiator of EUDEX: Oliver P. Kuhrt.

Other exhibitors come from the research and development, unmanned systems and robotics, personal equipment and gear, command and control, and AI and software sectors. The portfolio is complemented by providers from the areas of reconnaissance and surveillance, training, vehicles and heavy equipment, and education and training.

Simulation.

Joint stands pool industrial expertise

Another focus is on the numerous joint stands and institutional participations. Among those represented with their own presentations are the German states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse, and the Portuguese company Produtech.

Under the motto "Technologies from Portugal," the Schlüsselregion eV (Key Region Association), the IAMHH Industrialized Additive Manufacturing Hub Hamburg, and the Society for Economic and Structural Development in the Märkischer Kreis (GWS) are participating. Young companies and technology-oriented start-ups will also have their own platform within the event. The world's leading trade fair for welding and cutting is also taking part.

Focus on diplomacy and defense cooperation

The “International Diplomatic Forum” on September 23rd will set another security policy focus. This format is aimed at embassies and consulates.

The program includes a diplomatic briefing on the topic of "The importance of diplomacy for future European security", a moderated round table on the future of European defense cooperation, as well as exclusive tours of the trade fair and networking formats.

Parallel events create additional professional exchange

Alongside EUDEX, the Security Essen trade fair, the EUDEX Conference by CPM, and the JAPCC Conference of the Joint Air Power Competence Centre are also taking place. High-ranking military representatives from the 32 NATO member nations are expected to attend the event.

This makes Messe Essen a unique ecosystem in Europe for civil-military exchange and international defense cooperation.