The European Defence Innovation Forum is scheduled to bring more than 1,000 government, industry, and investment representatives to The Hague on November 11–12, to address defense production, technology funding, and lessons from Ukraine, Defence Industry Europe reported.
The Hague Forum Integrates Ukrainian Combat Experience
The second edition of the forum builds on its 2025 inaugural program with an expanded technology exhibition, industry-led sessions, a startup competition, and business-to-business matchmaking. Discussions will center on how European nations can expand manufacturing capacity and integrate new technologies into operational use, utilizing Ukraine’s combat experience as a primary guide for equipment development and deployment.
Participants from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Latvia, and Ukraine will join delegations from other NATO and allied countries. More than 50 Ukrainian and European defense companies plan to exhibit at the event, featuring ammunition production, air defense, unmanned aerial vehicles, and artificial intelligence systems.
Netherlands Seeks to Turn Civilian Innovation into Capability
“Today, there is no longer a clear line between the civilian and defence worlds,” said Nataliya Nakonechna, co-founder of EDIF. “The technologies, capital, expertise, and talents we need already exist – the challenge is to bring them together and turn innovation into real capability.”
Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius, Minister of Defence and Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, emphasized the urgency of the initiative. “Europe needs to strengthen its defence capacity, and we need to do it faster,” Yeşilgöz-Zegerius stated. “The Netherlands wants to play a leading role in this effort – bringing government and industry closer together, deepening our cooperation with Ukraine and learning from its battlefield experience how to turn innovation into stronger European readiness.”
Delegation Participation and Technology Showcases
The two-day event features structured sessions addressing cyber defense, space capabilities, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. A dedicated Latvian delegation will represent that nation’s defense innovation sector, while national delegations from the United Kingdom and other allied states participate in the matchmaking and exhibition tracks.
Organizers have not yet announced specific details regarding a new defense product slated for presentation by an exhibiting manufacturer.
Essential Details for Attendees
- Event Dates: November 11–12
- Location: The Hague, Netherlands
- Expected Attendance: More than 1,000 representatives
- Exhibitors: Over 50 defense companies from Ukraine and Europe
Frequently Asked Questions About the Event
Who is organizing the European Defence Innovation Forum?
The forum is organized by its founding leadership, including co-founder Nataliya Nakonechna.
What specific military technologies are featured in the program?
Sessions and exhibitions focus on ammunition production, air defense systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned ground systems, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and space capabilities.
How can companies participate in the matchmaking sessions?
Registered manufacturers, technology companies, investors, and government representatives can take part in dedicated B2B matchmaking activities running parallel to the main strategic discussions and technology exhibition.
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