International Drone Show expands and highlights the use of drones in security and defence

Odense, Denmark – March 11: Following a record 500+ attendees in 2024, organizers expect around 700 participants this year, reflecting growing industry interest and the increasing role of drones in critical sectors.

"The International Drone Show has become a key platform for the global UAS community,” says Søren Elmer Kristensen, CEO of Odense Robotics. “This year’s program will offer invaluable insights into how drone technology is advancing across industries—from defense and security to logistics, agriculture, and urban air mobility. With an expanded program and an increasing number of participants, the event provides a unique opportunity to engage with the latest innovations and connect with key players shaping the future of drones."

Addressing UAS in defence

As military and security forces increasingly rely on drones and unmanned systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, counterterrorism, and Arctic operations, the need for advanced autonomous capabilities has never been more pressing.

“Drones are a key component of both the infrastructure and defence of tomorrow. At the International Drone Show, we want to help bridge the gap between those who develop drones and those who will use them - for example in the defence industry, where there is huge potential for drone technology due to the growing global focus on security policy,” says Michael Larsen, Head of UAS Denmark Test Center.

This year’s International Drone Show will thus feature key insights from two of the most significant users of military drones—Denmark’s Ministry of Defense (DALO) and NATO (NSPA).

• Major Aske Nerup, Chief of the Danish Defence Industrial Office at DALO, will outline how companies—including those without prior defense experience—can engage with DALO to introduce new drone solutions into military operations.
  
  
• Stergios Isaakidis, Programme Manager for Alliance Ground Surveillance and Uncrewed Aerial Systems at NSPA (NATO Support and Procurement Agency), will discuss NSPA’s role in multinational UAS initiatives. His talk will explore current drone systems, key operational platforms, and trends shaping UAS development—from micro and mini drones to tactical, MALE, and HALE systems. He will also address industry engagement and business opportunities within NATO’s expanding drone ecosystem.

Additionally, expert panels will examine the latest advancements in military drone technology, including Arctic security, border surveillance, and defense logistics, reinforcing the critical role of drones and unmanned systems in modern military strategy.

Comprehensive Conference Program with 40+ Speakers

Beyond defense and security, the International Drone Show will highlight how drones are transforming industries worldwide. With more than 40 speakers, the conference will feature:

• Industry Use Cases & New Technologies – AI-powered automation, renewable energy applications, and drones in agriculture, logistics, and healthcare.
• Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) – The future of eVTOLs, urban air mobility solutions, and the regulatory landscape for aerial transport.
• Integrated Airspace – The role of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) and policies shaping the future of drone integration into commercial aviation.