A Showcase of the Latest and Greatest in Defence and Security
Join us as we explore the latest developments in defence and security technologies, and learn how to protect your country and people in the face of rising global conflicts.
Exciting developments in the defence and security industry have been taking place across Europe, and the IDET International Defence and Security Technologies Fair is poised to showcase the latest and greatest in the field. In an interview with the director, Mr. Michalis Busios, we delve into the key trends impacting the industry and get a sneak peek of what to expect at this year’s event while also discussing key trends in the defence and security industry in the context of the escalating tensions on the Ukrainian border, that has significantly increased the need for advanced defence and security technologies.
With the defence and security industry experiencing dynamic growth in Europe, how will this trend affect the next edition of IDET?
The latest developments in the security situation will drive the modernisation of armed forces across European countries, including the Czech Republic. This means an increase in spending and investment in the defence industry, which is reflected in the interest in participating in IDET. Visitors can look forward to seeing leading domestic and foreign companies showcasing their modern defence technologies, making IDET an important platform for industrial cooperation.
Czech companies have a strong reputation in the defence and security industry. How do you see their position in relation to global markets over the last years or even decades?
The defence and security industry is vital to the Czech economy, and Czech companies have been able to develop innovative solutions that enable them to compete on a global scale. According to Mr. Busios, in recent years, a number of new companies have been established to produce progressive technologies, often based on new technological developments such as virtual reality, 3D printing, or software. IDET is also focusing on these companies through the Start-Up Innovation Zone project, which aims to introduce new innovations and companies from the defence industry.
IDET has a strong export orientation. How have you managed to build such a strong communication platform, and what traditions are you building on?
IDET has a long tradition, going back to the beginning of the autonomous Czech Republic. This year, the fair is celebrating 30 years since its first season, just as it is celebrating 30 years since the establishment of the autonomous Czech Armed Forces. According to Mr. Busios, IDET has become one of the most important showcases of innovations in the defence and security industry in NATO countries. The fair’s success is closely related to the long-standing and successful cooperation with the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic, the DSIA, and other organisations.
IDET has long enjoyed the interest of international military delegations and delegations of foreign defence ministries for armament. What kind of participation do you expect this year?
Top political and military leaders are an essential part of the fair, with delegations coming on the basis of invitations from the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic, the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic, the DSIA, and the BVV Trade Fairs Brno. Last year, the fair was attended by members of official delegations and representatives of foreign armed forces from 31 countries, and we can expect a similar turnout this year.
Finally, what is the biggest news this year’s IDET will bring, and what can visitors look forward to?
Visitors can look forward to an interesting extra programme, including the IDET ARENA outdoor field polygon, where they will be treated to demonstrations of military, police, and firefighting equipment in action. There will also be several other exciting activities, making IDET a must-see event for anyone in the defence and security industry.
Interviewed and edited by: Katerina Urbanova EIC @ ACE
Photo credit: Idet
