Battlefield Redefined 2026: EU Hosts High-Level Event on Dual-Use Technologies for Defence Industrial Readiness in Cyprus
26 February 2026
The European Network of Defence-related Regions (ENDR), in collaboration with DG DEFIS, CARIE, and the Cyprus Defence & Space Industry Cluster, is hosting a pivotal high-level hybrid event titled 'Battlefield Redefined 2026: Modern Technologies with Dual-Use Potential Enhancing Security, Defence, and Space.' Scheduled from Thursday, 26 February 2026, at 09:00 CET to Friday, 27 February at 18:00 CET in Nicosia, Cyprus, this forum under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union gathers industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and innovators to forge the future of European defence capabilities. Positioned at Europe's eastern frontier, the event combines a conference with a static exhibition showcasing Cypriot and European manufacturers, offering B2B networking unparalleled in scope.
The thematic agenda spans critical areas for defence contractors and technology providers. The session on 'Strengthening the EU’s Defence Industrial Readiness' dissects practical implementation, spotlighting Cyprus as a national exemplar where policy, technology, and industry converge to build credible dual-use capabilities. This is vital for government procurement agencies seeking actionable insights into funding mechanisms and industrial participation models. 'Force Multipliers and Future Battlefields' delves into evolving warfare dynamics, including hybrid threats, cyber operations, and space-enabled services, drawing operational lessons to enhance resilience—a must-attend for those in Radar, Sensors & Communications and Cybersecurity & Electronic Warfare.
Further sessions address 'From Innovation to Deployment,' exploring EU financial tools, commercial banking, and large industrials' roles in scaling production. This directly impacts Research & Development firms and system integrators aiming to bridge innovation gaps. For infrastructure suppliers, discussions on absorbing capital and deploying at scale highlight opportunities in facilities expansion and operations optimization. The event's hybrid format ensures accessibility, fostering partnerships that could lead to contracts, tenders, and vendor deals across Defence Equipment & Systems, Unmanned Systems, and beyond.
Cyprus' strategic location amplifies its relevance, positioning it as a hub for Eastern Mediterranean defence tech. High-level VIPs from Europe and beyond will engage, potentially catalysing strategic investments and executive-level developments. For B2B decision-makers, this represents a goldmine for Appointments & Executive Moves tracking, as key figures outline visions for industrial transformation. The exhibition provides tangible demos, enabling on-site deal-making in Training & Simulation, Armour & Protective Systems, and Defence IT & Digital Solutions.
This event arrives amid heightened European rearmament, emphasizing dual-use innovations that serve both civilian and military needs, thus attracting diverse funding streams. Participants can expect deep dives into EU financing instruments like the European Defence Fund, with Cyprus exemplifying agile national strategies. Industry partners stand to gain from showcased Cypriot capabilities in space and security, opening doors for joint ventures and technology transfers. The forum's timing under the Presidency ensures policy alignment, influencing future tenders and procurements continent-wide.
In summary, 'Battlefield Redefined 2026' is a cornerstone for Europe's defence ecosystem, driving business growth through collaboration and innovation.