Paris: The highly anticipated Eurosatory 2024 which opened on June 17, 2024 at the expansive Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, witnessed convergence of global defence and security industry. With over 60,000 visitors and approximately 2,000 exhibitors, the event is set to be a significant gathering for industry professionals. The five-day event will conclude on June 21, 2024.
With live demonstration area spread over 20,000 square metre, visitors can witness here, the capabilities of French internal security forces, the French Army, and numerous international defence manufacturers at Eurosatory 2024. The event will feature more than 40 national pavilions, showcasing new equipment and innovative solutions. Additionally, a dedicated zone for helicopters will display models such as the Eurocopter Tiger, NH90 Caïman, H160M Guepard, H135, Apache, Black Hawk, and Chinook.
Eurosatory 2024 boasts a packed conference agenda featuring speakers from the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, Ministry of the Interior, National Gendarmerie Air Force, NATO, and the EU. Key topics include unmanned aerial systems (UAS), integration of air and missile defence systems, and electronic warfare. The discussions will delve into artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, UAV and counter-drone systems, space capabilities, logistics, and defence cooperation.
At Eurosatory 2024, India with its own pavilion is marking a strong presence with 32 Indian establishments. Through these participating companies, India is showcasing an advanced and varied set of military equipment. As biggest Indian exhibitor, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is showcasing equipment such as the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C), Main Battle Tank Arjun Mk-1A, Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), Pinaka rocket system and the Akash short range Surface to Air Missile (SAM) system. DRDO is also showcasing weapons such as the Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-Air Missile (AAM). The helicopter launched version of the Nag Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) the Helina is also on display by DRDO at the event. The Varunastra heavy-weight torpedo is also showcased.
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited and ammunition producer Yantra India Limited are also taking part in the event. Many private firms such as Bharat Forge, Raphe Mphibr, Zen Technologies, Brahamastra Defense Techno Products Limited and MKU are also showcasing their products at the prestigious exposition.
Focusing on innovation and insight, Eurosatory as a defence technology event started in 1967. It aims to present developments in the field with the aim of enabling nations to defend themselves. At Eurosatory 2024, AI is set to be a focal point at the exhibition. Following the EU’s adoption of the AI Act in December 2023, AI technologies are increasingly being integrated into defence systems to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. Visitors can expect to see advancements in autonomous navigation, data analysis, predictive intelligence, electronic warfare, and simulation training. Similarly, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and counter-UAS systems will be prominent topics at the event. Innovations in these areas are critical for modern defence strategies, and Eurosatory 2024 will provide a platform for showcasing the latest developments.
This year Eurosatory has a dedicated space for industry professions. An area of 250 square metre area designed for students, jobseekers, and military personnel transitioning to civilian careers, will feature professional meetings, practical workshops, and a “Job Wall” displaying vacancies within the French defence and security industry.
Additionally, the Eurosatory Lab will offer a space for start-ups to engage with industry experts, investors, and decision-makers. This initiative provides a platform for emerging companies to present their innovative solutions to a global audience, fostering opportunities for collaboration and growth.
As a landmark event for the global defence and security industry, Eurosatory 2024 with its extensive live demonstrations, comprehensive conference agenda, and focus on AI and technological innovations, will provide valuable insights and opportunities for professionals and exhibitors alike. Eurosatory 2024 has become a battleground for dominance in the skies, with drones and counter-drone systems taking centre stage. This shift reflects a crucial turning point in modern warfare and security concerns, driven by several key factors in the present geopolitical environment.
Eurosatory 2024 apart from showcasing the latest hardware also provides a platform for crucial discussions about the future of aerial warfare and its implications. The event isn’t merely an expo; it’s a glimpse into the future of aerial warfare shaping global security landscapes. The “drone dance” playing out in Paris represents a critical juncture, where technological advancements and ethical considerations collide.
