The European Defence Innovation Forum (EDIF) 2026

The European Defence Innovation Forum (EDIF) is Europe’s modern platform where dual-use innovation intersects with industry, entrepreneurship, capital and policy in both the EU and Ukraine. EDIF brings together key stakeholders, from governments and defence ministries to private industry and investors, to develop strategic partnerships, and drive forward the continent’s strategic autonomy and industrial resilience.

Building on its inaugural edition in 2025, the two-day event will focus on strengthening cross-border defence cooperation, accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies, and translating Ukraine’s battlefield experience into stronger European defence capabilities.

“Today, there is no longer a clear line between the civilian and defence worlds. The technologies, capital, expertise, and talents we need already exist – the challenge is to bring them together and turn innovation into real capability. That is why EDIF is returning for a second year, bigger and more international: to build an ecosystem where European governments, industry, investors and Ukraine’s battlefield experience can work together,” said Nataliya Nakonechna, Co-founder of EDIF.

What to expect

The programme will feature high-level discussions on defence innovation, industrial resilience, investment, and strategic cooperation, alongside an exhibition showcasing technologies from more than 50 Ukrainian and European defence companies.

Key topics include AI and cybersecurity, unmanned systems, space and intelligence, UAV production, air defence, and ammunition manufacturing.

Participants can also expect industry-led sessions, a startup competition, B2B matchmaking, and networking opportunities connecting policymakers, investors, manufacturers, and technology companies.

The Recursive is a media partner of the event. Discover more.