Enforce Tac 2026 – Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security is set to take place in Nuremberg from 23 to 25 February 2026. As part of the event, the Enforce Tac Conference on 23 February complements the trade fair activities by providing a separate forum for the latest key technologies. The conference will focus on electronic systems, sensors, drone defence, intelligent systems, and strategic issues relating to the development of modern defence and security technologies.

The Enforce Tac Conference is specifically geared towards developers, project managers and technology decision-makers from industry and research establishments, as well as representatives of the armed forces and security agencies. It provides a compact overview of the latest technological trends, specific use cases, and regulatory frameworks, creating a platform for direct dialogue between the various players who are helping to shape Europe’s future security. “With the Enforce Tac Conference, we are creating a hub where technological expertise converges with practical requirements and strategic perspectives,” explains Jasmin Rutka, Exhibition Director Enforce Tac, adding: “Especially when it comes to electronic and software-based systems, we are seeing significant pressure to innovate and a clear need for communication between developers, industry stakeholders, and end-users.”

Technological responses to current security requirements

The conference programme comprises four keynotes, 16 presentations and two panel discussions, covering a wide range of topics including innovative sensor solutions, drone defence solutions, and AI-assisted systems. The diverse keynotes and presentations explore topics such as software-defined defence concepts, multi-sensor reconnaissance technologies, resilient communication structures, and the role of intelligent systems in mission-critical applications.

The four keynotes address pivotal technological and strategic developments that are currently shaping the industry. The opening keynote is “Software-defined defence – enabler for combat-ready digital armed forces” by Brigadier-General Dr Volker Pötzsch from the German Ministry of Defence. The presentation will focus on the paradigm for software-defined capabilities as the basis for adaptable, resilient, and interoperable military systems. In this context, it will explore open architectures, modular platform approaches, and the role of artificial intelligence as a driver of future defence capability development.

Next up is Alexander Philipp, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Vertriebs GmbH, who will talk about the changes to the underlying industrial policy framework. “As the defence sector will be exempt from the prescribed borrowing limits within the scope of the ‘turning point 2.0’ structural reform, the security and defence industry is now in a position to make long-term investments,” stresses Philipp, identifying the factors he sees as necessary for the success of such investments: “Swift order placement and economic predictability, alongside technical flexibility, are important and beneficial for all stakeholders.”

In his keynote in the early afternoon, Dr. Markus Reisner, Colonel of the Austrian Army, explores the impacts of modern battlefields on military operational realities. In particular, he describes FPV (First Person View) drones and electronic warfare (EW) as ‘scourges of the modern battlefield’ that are currently posing enormous challenges for the armed forces involved in the conflict in Ukraine. In his presentation, Dr. Reisner provides details of how these capabilities are being used and suggests possible responses to them.

The final keynote by Professor Patrick Glauner from skyrocket.ai is ‘AI in the defence industry: technology, strategies, opportunities and regulatory challenges’. In his presentation, he shows how artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming the defence industry – from planning, data analysis and decision support to autonomous systems. At the same time, he explores technological, strategic and ethical issues as well as regulatory frameworks for the use of AI, while highlighting the role played by governments, industry and academia in its responsible implementation.

Strategic debates on the future of the European security industry

The two panel discussions at the Enforce Tac Conference provide a distinctive highlight. Under the heading ‘Quantity or quality? What European defence needs most’, representatives of industry, consultancies and the research community discuss the technological and industrial priorities that Europe should focus on in the light of the current security climate. This involves finding a balance between fast scaling of capabilities, technological excellence, and sustainable innovative strength.

The second discussion panel is devoted to the interplay between industry and innovation, with a focus on technological developments, innovation cycles, and the role of startups, SMEs and established system companies in an increasingly interconnected security industry environment. Accordingly, both panels address key aspects that are crucial to the long-term capabilities of the European security and defence industry.

As Professor Patrick Glauner, who serves as both a keynote speaker and panel member to discuss Europe’s future technological capabilities, underlines: “I hope that the Enforce Tac Conference will engender a genuine spirit of optimism and that the attendees will realise that AI can be adopted quickly and without the huge costs that are often expected. With the right experts on board and suitable best practices, AI can be used quickly and relatively inexpensively. If the conference succeeds in bringing these people together, it will have been an immense success.”

Bridge between research, industry and end-users

Alongside technological innovations, the conference will also look at overarching issues, e.g., relating to product development, regulatory frameworks like export controls, and resilient supply chains. “Intelligent systems are the key components of modern security and defence technologies. The conference aims to discuss technological solutions, identify areas of application, and bring together experts from various industries,” explains Professor Axel Sikora, Chairman of the Enforce Tac Conference.

A compact format delivering high-level expertise

As a one-day format, the Enforce Tac Conference offers a compact, densely structured programme with keynotes, specialist presentations, and discussion formats. Q&A sessions allow direct contact with speakers, while networking breaks are specifically designed to facilitate conversations between developers, system integrators, suppliers, and users. The conference is therefore not just an addition to the exhibition but a key professional dialogue forum within Enforce Tac.

Visitors need a separate conference ticket to take part in the Enforce Tac Conference. This ticket provides access to the Enforce Tac trade fair on all three days. Places are limited.

Please note: This event is restricted to members of the armed forces and official security and law enforcement agencies and organisations.

www.enforcetac.com/en/visit

Enforce Tac unveils the next chapter in its strategic development. This year (23-25 February 2026), the display area for Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security is set to increase to more than 60,000 m2 across seven exhibition halls. Then in 2027 (2-4 March), it will cover an area of as much as 73,000 m² in eight halls.

International interest in Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security has reached a new all-time high.

Enforce Tac unveils the next chapter in its strategic development. This year (23-25 February 2026), the display area for Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security is set to increase to more than 60,000 m2 across seven exhibition halls. Then in 2027 (2-4 March), it will cover an area of as much as 73,000 m² in eight halls. For a better overview of the entire exhibition grounds, a new hall cluster will also be established with a structure tailored to reflect the security and technological requirements of the coming years. Another new feature as of 2027 will be the Tuesday to Friday schedule, which caters to the needs of official agencies and security operatives to an even greater extent.

Under the guiding principle of an interconnected, resilient, and forward-looking security architecture, Enforce Tac has evolved to become Europe’s leading platform, bringing together innovations, strategic collaborations, and technological advances. “Enforce Tac is far more than just a trade fair. It is a testing ground for the future, where we work together to make Europe’s security more resilient and more responsible,” stresses event director Jasmin Rutka, adding: “Thanks to the extra display areas, modified schedule, and clearly structured hall clusters, we are creating the conditions for growth and further development, starting at the precise location where security, technology, and strategic partnerships intersect.”

Hall architecture in 2027: eight halls dedicated to Europe’s key security-related technologies

Enforce Tac has grown continually in recent years, enlarging its exhibition space step by step. The significant increase of around 22,000 m² in 2023 was followed by yet another expansion to more than 47,000 m² in 2025. With more than 60,000 m² in 2026, and a further enlargement to around 73,000 m² in 2027, the trade fair is systematically pursuing this development strategy. The new size gives exhibitors additional options, such as the ability to showcase even large-scale equipment directly at their stands, while visitors have even more space to get to know the innovations on the market.

The Enforce Tac display area will be distributed across eight halls for the first time in 2027 based on a new and improved hall cluster concept. The targeted thematic arrangement results in integrated spaces focused on specific topics that offer exhibitors and visitors a clear orientation and foster dialogue between areas that are related technologically. By doing this, Enforce Tac is sending out a clear message about the technological depth and strategic alignment it is pursuing.

The modified structure will enable Enforce Tac to cover the entire spectrum of security-related technologies and applications in the future – including ground- and air-supported systems, maritime solutions, equipment, interconnected operational concepts, space platforms, and unmanned systems. In doing so, the trade fair is laying the foundations for a European security architecture that embraces stronger links between military, governmental and industrial capabilities. “Enforce Tac 2027 provides a clear focus on Europe’s security policy challenges,” explains Jasmin Rutka. “Through the new structure, we are creating transparency, defining specific focus areas, and strengthening the dialogue between users, industry, the research community, and policymakers.”

Improved weekday schedule as of 2027: Tuesday to Thursday

At the suggestion of numerous official agencies, security operatives and military delegations, Enforce Tac will switch to a Tuesday to Friday schedule starting in 2027, when it will take place from 2 to 4 March. This new weekday schedule is intended to make it much easier for many agencies and international institutions to travel to the event and allows for more efficient planning of trade fair visits. At the same time, it will create improved conditions for users, exhibitors and organised delegations and in this way boost the overall quality of dialogue at the venue.

Vision 2027: a European platform with responsibility

Enforce Tac underlines Germany’s commitment to take on responsibility in the context of the European security dialogue. It provides an exclusive setting that facilitates confidential discussions, technological advances, and strategic coordination. The leading fair for internal and external security thus provides a framework for a future in which resilience and innovative strength are crucial prerequisites for peace and stability.

Please note: This event is restricted to members of the armed forces and official security and law enforcement agencies and organisations.

From February 23 to 25, 2026, Enforce Tac, under the patronage of Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, will bring together leading representatives and users from politics, the military, police, and security authorities with over 1,000 exhibitors on more than 60,000 square meters in Nuremberg. Under the theme of “Networked Security,” the restricted-access leading trade fair offers a protected environment for the exchange of innovative solutions and shared responsibility for Europe’s security.

Leading representatives of governments, military forces, law enforcement agencies, and security services will come together with business leaders at Enforce Tac 2026, to be held under the honorary sponsorship of German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Nuremberg, Germany, from 23 to 25 February 2026. In the spirit of the central theme “Networked Security”, the entry-restricted trade fair will provide a protected space where the participants can discuss innovative solutions and shared responsibility for Europe’s security. With more than 1,000 international exhibitors spread across seven exhibition halls covering more than 60,000 square meters of space, the leading German exhibition for Europe’s security and defence is the central platform for security-relevant technologies and strategic dialogue. The new event director Jasmin Rutka stresses the importance of this trade fair as a key driver of dialogue on the subject of European security.

Focus on networked security

The central theme of “Networked Security” is emblematic of the trade fair’s new positioning. Enforce Tac has evolved to become an innovative platform for dialogue and collaboration between leading players of the security and defence industry. The goal is to foster partnership-based cooperation and visionary ideas as a means of establishing the kind of trust that is absolutely necessary for developing sustainable, forward-looking security solutions. “Enforce Tac is dedicated to strategic dialogue at the highest levels of government and industry. Our goal is to create a platform that fosters innovation and supports dialogue between all security-relevant players, from users of tactical systems and equipment to top-level decision-makers”, Jasmin Rutka explained.

Diverse supporting programme to disseminate new ideas

Enforce Tac’s role as the central European platform for security-relevant topics is underscored by the high-quality supporting programme and exclusive formats described below.

Enforce Tac Conference: Key technologies in the bosom of European solidarity

For the first time ever, the trade fair will be accompanied by a top-quality conference devoted to the future of security electronics. The innovation potential of the electronics industry is the backbone of modern security and defence technologies. The Enforce Tac Conference is an exclusive platform for interdisciplinary exchanges on the subject of current developments and technology trends. Experts from industrial enterprises, research institutions, and government agencies will discuss trailblazing solutions in fields such as the development of components and sub-systems, sensors, communication technology, and other key technologies that will shape Europe’s security infrastructure for decades to come.

Learn more about Enforce Tac here.

Ammo Symposium: Strategies for resilient ammunition supply

The initiative of Enforce Tac and RWS GmbH will again organize an exclusive forum for security policy discussions on the future of ammunition production and procurement in 2026. In view of the existing geopolitical tensions and growing needs, the symposium will focus on innovative approaches to guaranteeing a resilient supply of ammunition, with the goal of ensuring permanently stable and reliable supply chains for Europe and NATO. “Innovation is the key to a more secure future of ammunition production. To meet the rising requirements, we need to rethink technology, quality, and speed of production”, said Dirk Prehn, General Manager of RWS GmbH. Leading international experts and decision makers from governments, military forces, and manufacturers will discuss the current geostrategic developments, planning considerations, and cross-border cooperation models to ensure strategic autonomy and supply security.

Interested persons need to register for this event.

Armored Forces Area: Tactical equipment in the service of European security

This special exhibition will present military equipment, cutting-edge vehicles, large-format weapons systems, and deployment-relevant technologies. It will provide unique insights into the latest developments in military technology and create a unique space conducive to targeted discussions of innovative mission solutions. It will be attended by key industry players such as Rheinmetall, KNDS, and Diehl Defence, which will present their latest systems and concepts for tactical deployments in the European security context.

Enforce Tac Village: Networked technology in action

Visitors will have the chance to experience live demonstrations put on by leading manufacturers in a new location, the Frankenhalle. By staging realistic scenarios, manufacturers will provide a first-hand look at how their technologies can be used in complex operational environments to strengthen networked security. The Frankenhalle is a new, generously sized stage for the live demonstrations and realistic tactical scenarios of Enforce Tac Village 2026. Leading manufacturers will demonstrate their communication, reconnaissance, and tactical mobility systems in action under realistic conditions. This format creates added value that can be found nowhere else. Technologies will be demonstrated in coordinated joint use. Operational readiness can be assessed first-hand, creating an ideal opportunity for purposeful dialogue between users and developers. Thus, Enforce Tac Village will serve as a central hub combining innovation, realistic use scenarios, and networked security.

German-Nordic Defence Dialogue: Partnership for European resilience

A special highlight of Enforce Tac 2026 will be the German-Nordic Defence Industry Dialogue. This initiative brings together leading representatives of the German and Nordic defence industries, government ministries, and research institutions to discuss joint strategies for developing faster and more effective military capabilities. It will be an ideal occasion for in-depth discussions of security policy, efforts to promote technology cooperation arrangements, and the accelerated implementation of innovative solutions with the goal of permanently strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities and making targeted use of synergies in northern Europe.

International Startup Area: Innovation for tomorrow’s security and defence

The International Startup Area at Enforce Tac 2026 will serve as an exclusive stage for startups to present their security and defence technology innovations. It will enable international startups to pitch their trailblazing solutions to a high-ranking trade audience and engage in targeted networking with manufacturers, government ministries, and research institutions. The goal of this initiative is to increase the visibility of highly promising innovations, promote cooperation arrangements, and give a boost to the development of European security structures. This event will be complemented by the Innovation Stage, a special programme format that lends additional visibility and communication possibilities to startups.

Political relevance and European responsibility

The honorary sponsorship role of German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscores the relevance of Enforce Tac as a platform for critically important dialogue on the subject of security and defence. Enforce Tac 2026 will focus on the protection of Europe and the shared responsibility for coming generations. This leading exhibition for law enforcement and defence fosters international dialogue and creates trust in innovative security solutions. Having repositioned itself as the European central platform for dialogue-oriented security and progress, Enforce Tac is the perfect venue for high-level representatives of governments, military forces, law enforcement agencies, and security services to actively shape the future of the European security landscape together.

www.enforcetac.com/en/programme

Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security has gained top-level political support: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will serve as honorary sponsor of the upcoming Enforce Tac, which will be held at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre from 23 to 25 February 2026.

Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s acceptance of the honorary sponsorship role sends a strong signal, underscoring the vital importance of Enforce Tac as a laboratory for the future of Europe’s security and as a crucial innovation driver in the European security and defence sector.

Resilience is a challenge to be tackled by all of society

“We want to be able to defend ourselves so that we will not have to defend ourselves. Defence is whole-of-society challenge. It is also an indispensable prerequisite for the resilience and future viability of our country. Enforce Tac embodies this comprehensive approach to security. And therefore, I am honoured to sponsor this event”, the German Chancellor said.

Enforce Tac 2026 will be held against the backdrop of radical changes in the international security order. New conventional risks require highly effective military forces and security personnel. In view of the hybrid threat situation, however, resilience is a challenge to be tackled by all of society, including government, business, and the public at large. This whole-of-society approach to security policy is aptly reflected by the honorary sponsorship role of the German Chancellor.

“The Federal Chancellor’s support is a great honour for us. It also bears a weight of responsibility”, said Peter Ottmann, CEO of NürnbergMesse. “It vindicates our approach of developing Enforce Tac into a leading platform for all security-relevant sectors and players. The Federal Chancellor’s honorary sponsorship role gives heightened strategic importance to the dialogue between government officials, public authorities, security forces, and industry players.”

Thanks to Minister-President Dr. Söder and State Minister Mr. Herrmann 

We wish to express our special gratitude to Dr. Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister-President, and Mr. Joachim Herrmann, the Bavarian State Minister of Interior, Sports, and Integration, for the crucial support they have given to the strategic evolution of Enforce Tac.

“The personal support of the Bavarian Minister-President has been indispensable to the success that Enforce Tac enjoys today. I especially also want to thank State Minister Joachim Herrmann, who has supported Enforce Tac as honorary sponsor for over a decade. The trade fair’s evolution has been permanently shaped by the strategic impetus he has provided”, Peter Ottmann said.

Collaborative security and responsibility for Europe’s values

By fostering trustful collaboration between government, business, and the public at large, Enforce Tac advances the cause of collaborative security within an integrated Europe. The concerted efforts of governments, security forces, and industry players is all the more important in these times of geopolitical tension, complex threats, and growing demands on the resilience of our society.

Enforce Tac 2026: Interconnected security across eight halls

Enforce Tac 2026 will bring together more than 1,000 exhibitors from all over Europe and from allied NATO countries, as well as high-ranking representatives of governments, military forces, law enforcement agencies, and industry players, to conduct a top-level dialogue in Nuremberg from 23 to 25 February 2026. In the spirit of the theme “Interconnected Security”, Enforce Tac will connect internal security, external security, and cyber security across eight halls comprising an area of approximately 65,000 m²– including the Enforce Tac Village in the Frankenhalle.

Only members of military forces, government agencies and organizations charged with law enforcement or military security duties, and representatives of the security and defence industry will be admitted. This exclusivity is meant to ensure a well-protected, highly focused atmosphere conducive to trustful collaboration and sustainable security.