AI, Drones, and Robotics take center stage for the first time
Security Essen is reinforcing its position as the leading trade fair for the security industry. With about a year and a half to go before the event, a significant portion of the exhibition space is already booked. The industry platform continues to grow and will set new focal points in 2026 – including drones and AI. For the first time, Security Essen will run alongside the Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX), bringing together civil and military security solutions at Messe Essen from September 22 to 25, 2026.
The response from the industry has been overwhelmingly positive. Numerous companies already secured their stand space for the 2026 edition during the successful previous event in the fall – including Hekatron, NSC Sicherheitstechnik, Advancis Software & Services, Deister Electronic, ABI-Sicherheitssysteme, Rohde & Schwarz and Ajax Systems, for example. Major players like Telenot, Abus, and Salto have also confirmed their participation. Due to high demand, the popular exhibition halls 7 and 8 are already nearly fully booked.
Drones, AI, robotics and video: new focus for a trade fair hall
Security Essen 2026 is setting a new focus: the key technologies of video surveillance, artificial intelligence and drones will be presented together in Hall 5 – all key technologies shaping the future of security. The hall will serve as a hub for industry leaders, users and decision-makers to connect and explore the latest innovations.
Two trade fairs, powerful synergies
Another major highlight of Security Essen 2026 is its collaboration with the newly launched defence trade fair Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX), which will take place in parallel. This strategic partnership will create valuable synergies between the civilian and military security sectors.
„Given the current global security landscape, cross-sector collaboration is more important than ever,“ says Julia Jacob, Project Manager of Security Essen. „By bringing together key players from both fields, we provide a unique platform for developing joint solutions for emerging challenges.“
The link between Security Essen and EUDEX is formed by be the Civil Protection & Civil Defence exhibition area. Located directly at the transition from Hall 5 to Hall 4, it brings together civil and military security solutions, ensuring close networking.
During the two trade fairs, the annual conference of the NATO Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC) will also take place on-site, bringing together high ranking military representatives from the 32 member nations.
