Bratislava — On 12 May, Bratislava will witness a moment unlike any other. Iconic UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, accompanied by the Spartan transport aircraft, will fly over the rooftops of the capital city, delivering a powerful visual and sound spectacle to officially launch the largest and most ambitious edition in the history of the international IDEB Defence & Security exhibition.
IDEB Defence & Security arrives in its largest format to date — featuring 150 exhibitors from 17 countries across Europe and overseas, a record-breaking exhibition area, and more than 250 pieces of modern military and security technology gathered in one place. Tanks, armoured vehicles, robotic and unmanned systems, drones, and technologies shaping the future of global security — not behind glass, not in photographs, but live, in motion, and within arm’s reach. The exhibition is held under the expert patronage of the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic.
Black Hawk helicopters over Bratislava up close
At 10:00 a.m. on 12 May, the ceremonial opening will begin with a low-altitude flyover of iconic UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters accompanied by the Spartan transport aircraft directly above the capital city — at an altitude of only 300 metres, highlighting the uniqueness of this moment. Immediately after the flyover, the gates of Incheba Bratislava will open and visitors will have the opportunity to see this legendary aircraft up close.
Global and Slovak premieres
This year’s edition brings an exceptional line-up of premieres rarely seen in Central Europe. DMD GROUP will present, for the very first time worldwide, the new generation ShKH EVA M3 6×6 self-propelled howitzer, the SAM120 automated mortar system, and the CPV II mobile command vehicle — a trio of projects demonstrating the direction of the Slovak defence industry. EVPÚ will unveil the next generation TURRA 30 V10 remotely operated turret system, pushing the boundaries of modern weapon stations.
Special attention will also be drawn to the Israeli BARAK MX air defence system — one of the world’s most advanced airspace protection solutions currently available.
Among the most striking exhibits of this year’s edition are the Patria 8×8, Pandur EVO and Borsuk armoured vehicles, the new ZETOR GERLACH armoured solutions including the APC 6×6 prototype transporter, as well as an extensive presentation by MSM Group featuring more than 14 military vehicles.
IDEB Defence & Security 2026 will offer experiences rarely found at traditional exhibitions — the opportunity to interact with technologies otherwise used exclusively for military purposes. Visitors will be able to sit in a Black Hawk helicopter simulator used for real pilot training operations or try controlling combat drones, taking the exhibition experience to an entirely new level and placing them directly in the heart of the action.
Elite units in action — live before visitors’ eyes
The extensive accompanying programme will include dynamic live demonstrations in the outdoor exhibition area. A special police unit of the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic will demonstrate an intervention against an armed offender using service vehicles and rope-access tactics — the demonstration titled “NO ESCAPE” is based on real operational procedures used in practice. Visitors can also expect bomb disposal robot demonstrations, simulated drone attacks on armoured vehicles, special forces interventions, and close combat demonstrations.
Slovakia on the map of the global defence industry
With participation from 17 countries and a record attendance of 150 exhibitors, IDEB Defence & Security 2026 significantly strengthens Slovakia’s international position in the fields of defence and security. The accompanying programme includes the international Artillery Symposium, presentation of the European SAFE initiative, and discussions involving representatives of NATO, the defence industry, and academia — creating a platform where decision-making meets innovation.
12–14 May 2026 · Incheba Expo Bratislava