The security sector in Germany is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by geopolitical tensions such as the conflict in Ukraine and regional unrest in the Middle East.
This evolving landscape is influencing industrial development, business strategies, and investment choices. Against this backdrop, the EURO DEFENCE EXPO is set to launch at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September, bringing together approximately 250 exhibitors from the defence industry.
Industrial shift and economic impact
Messe Essen's CEO, Oliver P. Kuhrt, highlights the economic ramifications of these changes. "Germany still tends to discuss defence primarily in political terms – but in reality, we are currently witnessing a profound industrial shift," states Kuhrt.
This shift underscores the growing momentum for innovation and employment within the sector. The German defence industry currently employs over 100,000 people, and military spending is projected to exceed €97 billion in 2025, marking a 24 percent increase from the previous year.
Diversification beyond traditional defence
Kuhrt notes a surge in demand for security and defence technologies
Kuhrt notes a surge in demand for security and defence technologies, which is benefiting not just traditional defence companies but also small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and technology providers.
Businesses from various industries, including automotive and mechanical engineering, are pivoting towards security-related fields, developing technologies for areas such as drone defence and critical infrastructure protection. "The area of dual-use technologies, in particular, is currently experiencing very dynamic growth," observes Kuhrt.
Diverse applications and key industry players
This trend will be evident at the EURO DEFENCE EXPO, showcasing companies like AIRSENSE Analytics, analyticon instruments, and ARX Robotics, which offer technologies applicable in both civilian and military contexts.
Established firms such as BINDER, Bernd Siegmund, and Alexander Binzel Schweisstechnik are also venturing into security applications. Additionally, key players in the military sector, including KNDS Deutschland Tracks and Heckler & Koch, will feature prominently, underscoring the event's role as a platform for industry leaders.
Integration of military and civil security
For the first time, the expo will concurrently host Security Essen, a widely recognised trade fair for civil security solutions, bringing together stakeholders from industry, the military, politics, and academia. Kuhrt concludes, "For companies today, the key question is no longer whether they engage with security, but how strategically they do so. The EURO DEFENCE EXPO makes this transformation visible and brings together the key stakeholders."
This combined event aims to spotlight the integrated approach to addressing both military and civil security challenges, positioning Messe Essen as a pivotal hub for the security industry.
The evolving security landscape is increasingly shaping industrial development in Germany. The war in Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, and a growing focus on civil protection are having a noticeable impact on markets, business models, and investment decisions.
This is precisely where the EURO DEFENCE EXPO comes in. The new international trade fair for the defence industry will make its debut at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September. Around 250 exhibitors are expected. For Messe Essen CEO Oliver P. Kuhrt, the economic implications of these developments are clear.
Profound industrial shift
“Germany still tends to discuss defence primarily in political terms – but in reality, we are currently witnessing a profound industrial shift,” says Kuhrt. “Anyone talking about the future of industry today cannot ignore this topic. Behind it lies enormous momentum for innovation, investment, and employment.”
The figures underline this trend: the German defence sector employs well over 100,000 people. At the same time, military spending in Germany rose to more than €97 billion in 2025 – an increase of 24 percent compared to the previous year.
Traditional defence companies
Oliver P. Kuhrt adds: “Demand for security and defence technologies is growing faster than it has for years. This is no longer benefiting only traditional defence companies – SMEs and technology providers are also opening up new markets.”
Dual-use technologies are gaining in importance At the same time, a structural transformation is taking place: an increasing number of companies from traditional industries are entering security related business fields. “Automotive suppliers, mechanical engineering firms and technology companies are developing solutions for drone defence, reconnaissance, and the protection of critical infrastructure,” explains Kuhrt.
Civilian disaster response
“The area of dual-use technologies, in particular, is currently experiencing very dynamic growth.” This development will be clearly visible at the EURO DEFENCE EXPO. Companies such as AIRSENSE Analytics, analyticon instruments and ARX Robotics exemplify technologies that can be used both in civilian disaster response and in military operations.
Established industrial companies such as BINDER, Bernd Siegmund and Alexander Binzel Schweisstechnik are also increasingly applying their expertise to security-related applications. At the same time, leading players are using the event as a platform: KNDS Deutschland Tracks, a key European provider of military land systems, will be present, as will Heckler & Koch, one of the most recognised manufacturers in the field of infantry weapons.
Civil security solutions
Military and civil security together for the first time Kuhrt concludes: “For companies today, the key question is no longer whether they engage with security, but how strategically they do so. The EURO DEFENCE EXPO makes this transformation visible and brings together the key stakeholders.”
Representatives from industry, the military, politics, security authorities and research are expected at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September. A particular highlight: Security Essen – one of the leading trade fairs for civil security – will take place at the same time as the EURO DEFENCE EXPO. “For the first time, Messe Essen will bring together military and civil security solutions in one place, becoming a central meeting point for the security-related industries,” says Kuhrt.
