The Global Defense Tech Summit 2025 is the ultimate destination for forward-thinking entrepreneurs, investors, governments, public organizations, municipal officials, and industry leaders shaping the future of defense technology. This event, taking place in Berlin in October 2025, is your chance to connect, collaborate, and elevate your defense-tech startup to a global stage. This year’s summit promises unparalleled networking opportunities, featuring top-tier investors seeking the next game-changing defense solutions, as well as leading experts from sectors such as robotics, AI, and unmanned systems.
JOIN THE GLOBAL DEFENSE TECH SUMMIT 2025
Where Defense Meets Innovation
The Global Defense Tech Summit is Hosted by iHLS, Israel’s leading homeland security innovation center
The iHLS Innovation Center is a leading platform fostering collaboration between Israel’s Ministry of Defense and the civilian tech industry through the INNOFENSE program. In partnership with the DDR&D, iHLS supports defense tech and dual-use startups by offering financial grants, professional mentorship, networking opportunities, and valuable business development resources. With a proven track record of success, the program continues to drive the integration of innovative solutions into the defense and civilian sectors.
The Event
GDTS 2025 offers a unique platform for companies and organizations to showcase their latest developments, products, and solutions in defense tech, artificial intelligence, homeland security, and innovation. The event will feature an exhibition of innovators in these fields and a conference with panels, workshops, and expert-led discussions by international specialists focusing on current security challenges and future trends.
The summit will foster networking and business collaboration among companies, entrepreneurs, investors, buyers, security experts, and industry leaders. It is expected to bring together startups and leading firms at the forefront of defense tech and HLS innovation, with key sectors including AI, unmanned systems, robotics, smart cities, perimeter security, and intelligence & analytics.
Participants will include senior executives, innovation leaders, investors, defense and security officials, and media partners from Israel, Europe, and beyond—joining to explore the latest advancements and opportunities in the industry.
STRAT-UP
COMPETITION
CONFERENCE
SPEAKERS
INVESTOR
ARENA
INNOVATION
EXHIBITION
The Conference
The GDTS conference brings together innovative startups, top investors, and defense industry leaders to shape the future of security technology. This global summit offers a unique opportunity for security, military, and technology experts to collaborate and drive the next wave of defense-tech innovation. Among the topics in the Conference:
>> Artificial Intelligence in Military Operations
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing modern warfare by providing advanced solutions, such as automating military operations, real-time threat detection, and optimized decision-making systems. AI enhances intelligence systems and data analysis, enabling faster responses to evolving threats.
>> Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Autonomous Drone Warfare
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become indispensable in both reconnaissance and combat operations. From small quadcopters for intelligence gathering to long-endurance drones capable of precision strikes, UAVs provide real-time situational awareness while reducing risks to human personnel. Advances in drone swarming and AI-driven autonomy are shaping the future of aerial warfare, enabling coordinated attacks and adaptive battlefield strategies.
>> Military Robotics and Autonomous Ground Systems
Military robotics are revolutionizing ground operations, logistics, and explosive ordnance disposal. Autonomous ground vehicles (AGVs) assist with resupply missions, robotic exoskeletons enhance soldier endurance, and humanoid robots are being tested for reconnaissance and hazardous tasks.
>>Advanced Air Defense Systems and Directed Energy Weapons
As aerial threats evolve, so do air defense systems, with cutting-edge technologies like directed energy weapons (DEWs) taking center stage. These systems offer a cost-effective means of neutralizing drones, missiles, and aircraft.
Inspirational Keynotes:
Kick off with powerful keynote speeches from visionary defense-tech leaders who have been there and built that – learn what’s next straight from the trailblazers.
Expert Panels
Engage in dynamic panel discussions on the hottest defense-tech trends and challenges. Hear candid insights from industry veterans, tech entrepreneurs, and military innovators pushing the envelope.
Innovation Exhibition
The Innovation Exhibition at the Global Defense Tech Summit will feature only 50 selected companies showcasing their cutting-edge technologies. This is a unique opportunity to connect directly with top investors, innovation leaders, and potential clients from Europe’s most significant defense and tech organizations. Booths are limited — secure yours now, first come, first served!
Start-up Competition
Join the Innovation Competition – Your Chance to Make a Global Impact!
Calling all defense-tech startups! Don’t miss out on the exciting opportunity to participate in the Defense-Tech Startup Competition. This competition is your chance to showcase your groundbreaking solutions to the world. It offers a unique platform for startups and entrepreneurs to compete for major prizes, investment opportunities, and unparalleled exposure to global defense tech leaders.
Major Prizes: Secure prizes and receive business opportunities to elevate your startup to the next level.
Exposure to Key Industry Players: Present your innovations in front of top military officials, influential investors, and leading defense tech companies looking for the next big breakthrough.
Mentorship & Partnerships: Gain access to expert guidance and build strategic partnerships with major players in the defense tech industry.
Spaces are limited – apply now for the competition and take your defense tech startup to new heights.
Sponsorship
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Various sponsorship options will give your company an additional promotion platform, expose it to target audiences and decision-makers in the field, situate you as a leading cutting-edge technology company, and create new business opportunities for you.
For more information about the summit, start-up competition & sponsorship opportunities, please contact