Future Forces 2026: A Strategic Platform for Defense Procurement in Prague

The Future Forces Exhibition & Forum 2026 (FF26) is set to take place from October 21 to October 23, 2026, at the PVA EXPO PRAGUE in Prague, Czech Republic. It represents a pivotal event on the international defense and security calendar, drawing together a diverse array of stakeholders, including government and military representatives, NATO and EU organizations, research institutions, and industry professionals. With an emphasis on capability discussions, live demonstrations, and business matchmaking, this exhibition is a unique opportunity for contractors aiming to expand their market presence and deepen their understanding of user needs in a rapidly changing security landscape.

Organized by the NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic and other prominent defense organizations, FF26 is expected to host over 500 exhibitors from 38 countries, filling more than 23,000 square meters of exhibition space. The event will likely gather over 9,000 professional visitors and more than 1,000 official delegates and VIP guests, creating numerous touchpoints for networking and collaboration. Delegates from more than 70 countries are anticipated, highlighting the forum’s international significance and its role as a melting pot for innovative ideas and operational solutions.

At FF26, discussions will range across various pressing topics in defense, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats, cybersecurity, robotics, and advanced soldier systems, among others. The event features around forty expert panels, working sessions, and specialized events tailored to address both current and future challenges across land, air, and cyberspace domains. Notably, the opening panel will delve into Defence 2035+: Adapting to the New Security Reality, which will explore emerging security dynamics and assess the preparedness of allied nations in facing potential conflicts ahead.

The Future Forces Exhibition & Forum is not merely a showcase of hardware. It serves as a dynamic platform where government personnel, military leaders, security agencies, research institutions, and industry experts converge to facilitate direct dialogues about requirements and capabilities. The emphasis on operational requirements and lessons learned from recent conflicts bridges the gap between innovative technologies and their practical applications in the field. This twin focus on innovation and actual user experience fosters an environment conducive to identifying real solutions for defense, security, and national resilience.

For contractors, participating in working groups and specialized discussions at FF26 is invaluable for engagement with prospective government and NATO stakeholders. It allows companies to assess user needs firsthand and tailor their offerings accordingly. Particularly, organizations involved in unmanned systems, CBRN capabilities, cyber defenses, robotics, and soldier equipment are likely to find great opportunities for business development and partnership-building within this rich exchange of knowledge and experience.

In addition to the discussions surrounding military needs and innovations, the adjacent Defence and Security Day on October 24 will open its doors to the public, providing further engagement opportunities and expanding the reach of the discussions held during FF26. This is an essential aspect for companies looking to engage not only governmental partners but also the broader public interested in national security initiatives.

The strategic importance of FF26, as a precursor to future procurements and collaborations, makes it essential for contractors in the defense sector to participate actively. As organizations work to navigate evolving threats and capabilities, events like these play a crucial role in shaping the direction of defense procurement in the coming years.