Two events, one common goal: the Euro Defense Expo (EUDEX) and the annual conference of the NATO Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC) will be held in parallel in 2026. While the NATO event will bring together high-ranking military representatives from the 32 member nations, the new defense trade fair will present innovative technologies for security and defense. Together, this will create a platform for exchange, innovation and business relationships at Messe Essen from September 22 to 25, 2026.
The JAPCC conference brings together over 400 high-ranking military representatives and offers a unique opportunity for strategic dialog. At the same time, defense technology companies present their solutions and applications for current military challenges at EUDEX – directly in front of the relevant decision-makers.
Maximum networking, direct exchange
The close dovetailing of the two events creates numerous additional opportunities for discussions between industry and the military. Plans so far include a joint evening event and opportunities to visit both events.
Lieutenant Colonel André Haider from the Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC): “With this collaboration, we are promoting dialog between the military and industry. We are looking forward to the opportunity to enter into discussions with relevant partners and to identify and integrate innovative solutions more quickly.”
Combination of military and civil security
As a new platform for the defense industry, EUDEX offers numerous opportunities for decision-makers, experts and innovators to find out about innovations in security and defense technologies. A top-class conference program organized by CPM Verlag complements the trade fair. In addition, EUDEX takes place parallel to the leading security trade fair Security Essen – and thus combines military and civil security.
Julia Jacob, Project Manager of EUDEX, said: “For us, the JAPCC conference is another important building block for our approach of looking at security from a holistic perspective. It offers our exhibitors unique synergies: direct access to international decision-makers, targeted presentation of innovations and strategic partnerships at the highest level. With the combination of trade fairs, conference and networking opportunities, together we are creating a must-have event for companies that want to actively shape the future of the defense and security industry.”
