Deutsche Messe - Experts & Thought Leaders

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 (1-6 June) is already shaping up to deliver a wealth of highlights. For the first time, the world’s major trade fair for firefighting, rescue, and civil protection will feature dedicated Rescue Robotics Days – the “DRZ Civil Protection Robotics Forum.” “By integrating this new format, INTERSCHUTZ underscores its role as a showcase for the latest technologies, products, and solutions in hazard prevention,” says Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe AG.  The DRZ Civil Protection Robotics Forum is organised by the German Rescue Robotics Center (DRZ) in cooperation with Deutsche Messe AG. According to DRZ Managing Director Robert Grafe, the event is set to become an international meeting point for experts. Programme highlights Programme highlights will include demonstrations of robotic systems deployed in secured areas “We will also offer a varied supporting programme with hands-on demonstrations,” Grafe explains. “Visitors will have the opportunity to explore innovative solutions and the latest developments in robotics while exchanging ideas with experts from science, industry, and associations.” Alongside activities at the DRZ stand in Hall 17, a large outdoor demonstration area titled “USAR and Robotics Demo Area” will showcase ground systems, underwater test facilities, and more. USAR stands for Urban Search and Rescue, the internationally recognised term for search-and-rescue operations in urban environments. Programme highlights will include demonstrations of robotic systems deployed in secured areas. Realistic mission scenarios will allow the latest technologies to be presented live in action. Rescue robotics “With the DRZ Civil Protection Robotics Forum at INTERSCHUTZ 2026, we aim to create not only a hub for knowledge transfer but also excellent networking opportunities, enabling valuable connections and partnerships,” emphasises Grafe. Founded in Dortmund in 2018, the DRZ develops, tests, and advances application-orientated solutions in close collaboration with partners from science, technology, and practice. Its mission is to drive the development and deployment of rescue robotics to protect lives and support first responders in disaster situations. Testing of robotic systems The practical viability of DRZ developments has already been proven in numerous exercises At the heart of the DRZ is its unique Living Lab in Dortmund, which provides ideal conditions for realistic testing of robotic systems in rescue and safety scenarios. Here, innovative technologies are tested, validated, and refined under deployment-like conditions. “In the DRZ Living Lab, we combine methodological neutrality, hands-on expertise, and excellent infrastructure into a unique package,” says Grafe. “Our strength lies in delivering customised solutions for highly demanding requirements.” The practical viability of DRZ developments has already been proven in numerous exercises and real operations, such as the 2021 flood disaster in the Ahr Valley (Germany), chemical incidents, and large-scale fires. Diverse supporting programme “The Rescue Robotics Days and the DRZ Civil Protection Robotics Forum are just one example of the diverse supporting programme that will characterise INTERSCHUTZ 2026,” concludes Heinold. “Over the coming weeks and months, we will finalise further partner-driven formats that reflect the full breadth of INTERSCHUTZ 2026.”

With a new event format, INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hanover is placing the growing global challenge of forest and vegetation fires at the center of the trade fair. As part of WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ, experts from Germany and abroad will present innovative methods for combating and preventing vegetation fires throughout all six days of the trade fair. They will discuss strategies, approaches, and measures to detect fires at an early stage or, ideally, prevent them from occurring in the first place. Collaborative response zone At INTERSCHUTZ, various outdoor areas northeast of Hall 26 will be designated for partner presentations, open to both commercial and non-profit exhibitors as well as shared spaces. “With WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ, we are creating excellent conditions for bringing together developers, suppliers, and emergency responders,” says Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe. “Exhibitors can gain first-hand insights into the challenges faced by emergency services, while responders can experience the latest technological advancements the industry has to offer.” WildfireCamp spotlight According to Heinold, the WildfireCamp in the outdoor area is designed to become “a small INTERSCHUTZ within INTERSCHUTZ”, enhancing the event’s program with an engaging and interactive component. “Climate change and its negative impacts are one of the key topics of our world's leading trade fair, and vegetation fires are a crucial part of this discussion,” adds Heinold. “We are therefore grateful to have attracted such a strong and knowledgeable partner network for WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ.” Smart wildfire response This solution enables fire detection while ensuring automated alerting of emergency services. As one of the three partners, Bosch Building Technologies is presenting its Wildfire Detection service. This comprehensive solution enables early fire detection in forests, recreational areas, natural spaces near infrastructure, and outdoor areas close to buildings, while also ensuring the automated alerting of emergency services. “As a partner with many years of experience in networked fire protection solutions, we are fully leveraging the advantages of digitalization, connectivity, and artificial intelligence for our latest Wildfire Detection service,” says Thomas Reinicke, Head of the Solutions Business Life Safety division at Bosch Building Technologies. “We are proud to apply our fire protection expertise not only to safeguard people and property but also to contribute to the preservation of nature.”  Wildfire collaboration Another partner is the European Forest Institute (EFI), which operates in 26 member countries with 116 participating organizations from 36 countries engaged in various scientific fields. “We want to use INTERSCHUTZ to put an even stronger focus on the issue of forest fires,” says Alexander Held from EFI. “It's about knowledge transfer and networking, equipment, training, strategy, and tactics. We can also greatly benefit from the experience of our international guests.” According to Held, addressing the issue is not solely the responsibility of fire services – it begins with policy-making and extends to forest owners. “We need a coalition of the willing,” he emphasizes. Integrated fire management The third partner of the WildfireCamp is @fire. As an aid organization with a broad portfolio, they are firmly rooted in vegetation firefighting. The volunteers from @fire are not only involved in training firefighters to combat vegetation fires but are also available in emergencies. Both in Germany and worldwide, they provide specialized personnel, including firefighting teams, fire analysts, and experts for coordinating aerial firefighting operations. “We look forward to working with various partners at WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ to showcase innovative approaches and available solutions for integrated fire management,” says Dr. Martin Schmid from @fire. “For me, integrated fire management means considering prevention, deployment, and reforestation as interconnected elements. It also involves examining all aspects of these solutions, such as the proper tactical integration of firefighting operations, necessary logistics like water supply, the availability of specialized personnel, and suitable communication technology.”

The global security order is facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, growing geopolitical tensions, and the vulnerability of critical infrastructures are demanding an increased commitment to defence and security issues from Germany and other European countries. DSEI Germany will be held for the first time from 19 - 22 January 2027 at the Messegelände Hannover (Hannover Exhibition Grounds) to address this demand. DSEI Germany is organised by Deutsche Messe AG in partnership with the organisers of DSEI UK and DSEI Japan, the security and defence exhibitions. DSEI UK and DSEI Japan take place every two years in London and Tokyo respectively. National defensive potential DSEI Germany will showcase the modern military equipment, armaments, technologies, products, processes, and materials required to ensure national defensive potential, the ability to meet alliance commitments, and geopolitical security. The security policy priorities of NATO and the EU will form the basis of the debate The event will support industrial companies and their suppliers to meet the increasing demand brought about by the "Zeitenwende", the turning point which is transforming Germany’s defence policy. The security policy priorities of NATO and the EU will form the basis of the debate, with military leaders and civilian decision-makers discussing strategic defence issues and opportunities for partnerships. Deepening security and defence cooperation Following the historic “Trinity House” agreement between the UK and Germany, with the aim of deepening security and defence cooperation between the two countries, DSEI Germany will provide a forum for consolidating and expanding partnerships and alliances both within Europe and worldwide, while promoting cooperation in security policy. Today's defence requirements are becoming increasingly complex and demand comprehensive, networked solutions in all areas of the modern army. The trade fair offers industry partners a platform to present capabilities and technologies tailored to the respective military needs. Receiving comprehensive support DSEI Germany is receiving comprehensive support from Germany's Federal Ministry of Defence and Bundeswehr:  "The turning point in Germany's defence policy not only requires us to reorientate our defence strategy but also calls for technological and industrial capabilities to be promoted in a targeted manner," explains Boris Pistorius, the Federal Minister of Defence. "DSEI Germany can provide Germany with an important platform to demonstrate its defence capabilities, technological leadership, and innovative strength on the international stage.” Operational readiness and capabilities Olaf Lies, Lower Saxony's Minister of Economic Affairs, said: “The announcement of DSEI Germany is an important signal for Lower Saxony as an important industrial location. After all, the view of the defence industry has changed fundamentally, not least as a result of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.” “In view of the current geopolitical challenges, the importance of close cooperation between industry, research and politics to develop new solutions for the security and defence capabilities of Germany and Europe is more evident than ever. Our security and resilience are directly linked to the operational readiness and capabilities of our armed forces.”  Strengthening defence industry “Hannover as the location of this new leading trade fair not only strengthens our defence industry, but also numerous suppliers and partners who play a key role in the value chain. Lower Saxony is an important location for industry in Germany and it is therefore only logical that Deutsche Messe AG is also involved in this sector and makes a decisive contribution to networking the industry.”  “The Zeitenwende described by Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz requires us as a society to set the right course for the business location. DSEI Germany offers a platform on which strategies, innovations and new partnerships can be established in order to meet the challenges of our time with combined forces. The fact that we in Lower Saxony are hosting this event shows that we are prepared to take responsibility here.” International political network Chris Gallon, CEO, EMEA for DSEI said: “DSEI is a long established and respected brand in the defence and security sector and has a strong reputation for delivering events of outstanding value for the global audience we serve at both DSEI in London and Tokyo. DSEI Germany presents a key opportunity to bring the domestic industry together with its allies and partners to demonstrate capability and concepts.” Dr. Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG said: “No other trade fair company has a national and international political network that can match that of Deutsche Messe. Together with the DSEI team, and in combination with our modern premises which have a long track record of hosting world-class industrial trade fairs, we can wield our strengths in a targeted manner to make an important contribution toward strengthening security in Germany and elsewhere in Europe."