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02 Jul 25. DSEI UK 2025 Tech Zone reflects MoD’s call for rapid defence innovation as “groundbreaking work is being done outside of defence.” With the Ministry of Defence doubling down on technology to futureproof the UK’s armed forces, this year’s DSEI UK (9–12 September, Excel London) will unveil its updated Tech Zone with more than 100 tech companies, a hub for the cutting-edge innovation which is set to reshape how Britain fights and wins.
Tech giants like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Garmin Europe Ltd, and Capgemini will exhibit — showing that defence is no longer the domain of traditional contractors alone. AWS will demonstrate its cloud infrastructure, edge computing and satellite capabilities for military command and control. Garmin brings battlefield-ready flight tech, GPS, and wearables, whilst Capgemini is looking to bring its digital transformation and technology services to the defence industry.
Unveiled in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, the MoD’s future force vision prioritises investment in digital, autonomous and space-based systems, recognising that the UK must adapt “at the speed of relevance” to meet a complex and evolving threat landscape.
The Tech Zone is set to reflect these themes as it will be home to the UK Strategic Command, UK MOD Science & Innovation, and Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). Commander Strategic Command, General Jim Hockenhull KBE, ADC, recently stated in a DSEI UK interview that “much of the groundbreaking work is being done outside of defence organisations and DSEI (UK) allows us to have that partnership with industry to find new ways of doing things”.
Defence has long been a driver of technological advancement, but in today’s hyper-connected world, the proliferation of defence technology has accelerated exponentially. The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the value of low-cost, expendable unmanned aerial systems (UAS) which have proven effective against even the most high-end, sophisticated systems.
Reflecting this pivot, the Tech Zone has become one of the key drivers of growth at DSEI UK 2025, with the show organisers responding to this demand with the zone being housed in the expanded part of the Excel. DSEI UK will give a platform for start-ups, medium-sized and larger enterprise developing novel technologies including AI, autonomous systems, cloud computing, big data and advanced analytics (BD&AA) as well as disruptive innovation such as quantum computing.
Grant Burgham, DSEI UK Director, commented: “In recent months there has been a spotlight on the urgent requirement to keep pace with the rapid technological change that’s reshaping the defence sector. As we approach this year’s DSEI UK, we’re seeing that momentum firsthand, with a wave of technology companies exhibiting, many from outside the traditional defence sector. This adds to the event’s appeal as these companies exhibit alongside longstanding defence companies, with deep knowledge of the sector. We’re looking forward to providing all companies the opportunity to showcase how their solutions can shape the next era of defence technology”.
02 Jul 25. IISS is hosting in cooperation with Hamburg Messe und Congress, the new Global Security and Innovation Summit (GSIS) on 22-23 October 2025. This new event is designed to address emerging global security challenges and to explore cutting-edge solutions from a range of fields such as cyber security, AI and advanced computing. It combines high-level discussions featuring political leaders, industry executives, technology pioneers and security experts alongside a curated exhibition showcasing current technologies and innovations. With the GSIS Accelerator – powered by Speer Group, the Global Security and Innovation Summit (GSIS) is launching a new innovation format designed to address Europe’s strategic security needs. The programme is looking for start-ups with high-impact technologies in the fields of security, defence and resilience. The ten most compelling applicants will be invited to present their ideas on October 22, 2025, at GSIS in Hamburg before an international audience of top-tier decision-makers. Equity investments of up to EUR5 m per start-up may be made available to the winners of the final presentation, subject to internal investment criteria, a successful due diligence process and standard contractual negotiations. These investments will be provided by the GSIS exclusive Venture Partner, Speer Group. The GSIS Accelerator connects founders with investors, policymakers, and institutions in the security policy space, with a clear objective: to close Europe’s security innovation gaps through targeted support. In addition to pitching their ventures, finalists will benefit from access to an international network and advisory support on core governance issues in the security domain.
“Technology and Innovation are crucial factors for European security. The Accelerator combines start-up intelligence with strategic relevance – exactly what Europe needs now.”– Dr. Bastian Giegerich, Director-General, IISS.
“With GSIS and the Accelerator, we are creating a unique meeting point for innovation, responsibility, and execution – right in the heart of Europe. Hamburg offers the ideal stage for it.” – Heiko M. Stutzinger, CEO, Hamburg Messe und Congress.
“We don’t invest in trends, we invest in solutions that strengthen Europe’s security and resilience. Alongside capital, we provide access to strategic networks and experts who help companies scale and secure Europe’s capacity to act.” – Max Büchner, CEO, Speer Group.
“Europe cannot afford to fall behind in the strategic race for technology. The GSIS Accelerator creates a platform where security-relevant innovations become visible, investable, and politically connected.” – Dimitrios Argirakos, Executive Chair, GSIS.
Finalists will be selected by Speer Group as the investment manager, in collaboration with experts in security policy, technology, and venture capital via the Investment Recommendation Committee. Selection criteria include the degree of innovation, strategic relevance, and scalability. In addition to exposure and access to an international network, winners will have the opportunity to secure financial backing. The program seeks technology-driven start-ups aligned with NATO’s five strategic dimensions: sea, air, land, cyber (intelligence), and space, along with complementary technologies. Pitch decks are accepted via email until October 10, 2025. The live pitch of the finalists will take place on October 22, 2025, at GSIS at the CCH – Congress Center Hamburg. The aim: to spotlight and support Europe’s most security-relevant start-ups.
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DSEI 2025 – POWERING PROGRESS, DEFINING YOUR FUTURE
DSEI connects governments, national armed forces, industry thought leaders and the entire defence & security supply chain on a global scale. With a range of valuable opportunities for networking, a platform for business, access to relevant content & live-action demonstrations, the DSEI community can strengthen relationships, share knowledge and engage in the latest capabilities across the exhibition’s Aerospace, Land, Naval, Security & Joint Zones.
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