DSEI Trade Exhibition 2027 – London, United Kingdom

What to expect

DSEI Trade Exhibition 2027, standing for Defence and Security Equipment International, is the UK’s flagship defence event and world leading event that brings together global defence and security sector. DSEI UK takes place every two years in London and connects governments, national armed forces, industry thought leaders and entire defence and security supply chain on global scale.

DSEI connects governments, national armed forces, industry thought leaders and entire defence and security supply chain on global scale. With range of valuable opportunities for networking, platform for business, access to relevant content and live-action demonstrations, DSEI community can strengthen relationships, share knowledge and engage in latest capabilities across exhibition’s Aerospace, Land, Naval, Security and Joint Zones.

From 7 to 10 September 2027, defence community will gather in London for DSEI UK at ExCeL London. More than 35,000 visitors and 1,500+ exhibitors are expected in 2027 edition, representing land, naval, aerospace, cyber and joint domains. Recent editions featured 1,245 exhibitors, 1,683 exhibitors projected, 34,000 attendees and 1,000 defence and security suppliers including all major prime manufacturers plus more than 100 new exhibitors.

The show offers unrivalled networking opportunities within defence sector, delivers insights from key decision makers and chance to see latest defence, security and military vehicles, vessels and technology in action. Designed to connect governments, national armed forces, industry thought leaders and entire defence and security supply chain, DSEI London is global scale defence exhibition and conference held in UK, powering progress and defining your future.

Event dates

• Event Dates: September 7–10, 2027
• Event Days: Tuesday 7 September, Wednesday 8 September, Thursday 9 September, Friday 10 September 2027
• Event Timings: Tuesday to Thursday 09:30 – 17:00, Friday 09:30 – 16:00, with daily showcases and demos plus 8 seminar theatres
• Edition: DSEI UK 2027 – UK’s Flagship Defence Event – Biennial Edition
• Frequency: Every two years – Biennial
• Venue: ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, UK
• Organised By: Clarion Events Ltd
• Contact Email: customersolutions@dsei.co.uk
• Contact Phone: T: +44 (0)330 912 1213
• Official Website: https://www.dsei.co.uk/
• Expected Scale: 35,000+ visitors, 1,500+ exhibitors, 5 Zones, 4 Hubs

All exhibition, conference, live-action demonstrations and networking activities take place within these four core days at ExCeL London.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Venue & exhibition site

DSEI Trade Exhibition 2027 takes place at ExCeL London – International Exhibition and Convention Center, ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, United Kingdom. ExCeL London is one of Europe’s leading international exhibition centres and renowned home of defence exhibitions, located at heart of Royal Victoria Dock with excellent infrastructure.

The venue offers 100,000 sqm of exhibition space, with DSEI occupying large halls plus distinctive dockside setting delivering showcase of maritime capabilities and international warships. Facilities include fully accessible halls, award-winning catering, free Wi-Fi for qualified visitors, dedicated conference theatres including 8 seminar theatres featuring MOD-led content, Strategic Conference theatre and live-action demonstration areas.

ExCeL London is directly connected to Custom House station on both Elizabeth line and DLR via covered walkway, with 3,700 parking spaces, on-site hotels, restaurants and business services. Venue is operated by ADNEC Group and hosts over 400 events annually.

The exhibition site is designed for platform for business and live-action demonstrations, providing invaluable networking opportunities and live-action demonstrations across Aerospace, Land, Naval, Security and Joint Zones. Site layout includes Future Tech Hub fastest-growing area of exhibition supporting exhibitors looking to break into defence sector, Manufacturing Hub bolstering manufacturers, Medical Hub dedicated to military medicine and Space Hub recognising military forces increasing dependency on space domain.

Full event programme

The full event programme for DSEI 2027 features world leading event that brings together global defence and security sector with unparalleled content programme featuring keynote addresses from top defence officials and military figureheads and eight seminar theatres featuring MOD-led content.

The programme includes daily showcases and demos plus strategic briefings, capability showcases and exclusive networking opportunities. Over 1,000 defence and security suppliers including all major prime manufacturers plus more than 100 new exhibitors will showcase latest technology, strategies and partnerships that shape global defence and security.

Programme covers Aerospace Zone demonstrating latest in military avionics capabilities attracting worldwide attention including air force delegations, government officials, OEMs, system manufacturers, integrators, Primes and SMEs. Land Zone platform focused on land-based operations featuring latest advancements in military vehicles, weapons, ammunition and equipment with emphasis on land systems innovation. Naval Zone interactive showcase of latest vessels and maritime technology with dockside setting delivering showcase of maritime capabilities and international warships.

Security Zone dedicated showcase of security equipment, technologies, strategies and systems to counter priority threats such as cyber-attacks, hybrid warfare and terrorism. Joint Zone features latest Defence and Security products and innovations focusing on C4ISTAR, Communications, Defence Infrastructure, Big Data and Information, Electronic Warfare, Joint Enablers, Logistics, Medical, Robotics and Telemedicine.

Hubs programme includes Future Tech Hub supporting information plays in future battlespace, Manufacturing Hub for defence manufacturing vital part of UK and world economy, Medical Hub devoted to championing companies at forefront of military medicine and Space Hub platform to share and discuss next-generation off-world technologies.

Key speakers & keynote speakers

Key speakers and keynote speakers at DSEI include top defence officials, military figureheads, government ministers and industry thought leaders shaping global defence and security.

Based on recent editions, prestigious programme of VIP speakers includes General Sir Nick Carter KCB CBE DSO ADC Gen Chief of General Staff, General Sir Chris Deverell KCB MBE ADC Gen Commander Joint Forces Command, Admiral Sir Philip Jones KCB ADC First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, US Army Deputy Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Erik C Peterson delivering international keynote address, CIA Chief Information Officer Juliane J Gallina, Michael Vaccaro director at Office of Strategic Industries and Economic Security US Department of Commerce, Maj Gen Kathryn Toohey head of land capability Australian Army, Brian Johnson-Thomas former arms expert for UN, Major General Chris Tickell Director and speakers from Joint Helicopter Command and Joint Multi-Role JMR programme office US Army.

Other speakers include UK and EMEIA Defence Leader Idris Memon, Defence Senior Advisor Richard Spencer, Government Technology Leader Adam Hughes, Global Lead for Workforce and Citizens Josie Cluer from EY and PA Consulting with eight speakers most thoroughly represented advisory firm at event.

Future Tech Hub speakers include innovators from Advanced Navigation high-accuracy navigation and positioning solutions for unmanned and autonomous vehicles, IMSAR high-performance synthetic aperture radar systems for unmanned aerial vehicles, Allen-Vanguard and partners unveiling SECURIS mobile counter-drone trailer integrating RF, radar and optical detection with RF defeat.

Conference sessions & tracks

Conference sessions and tracks are organised into 8 seminar theatres plus Strategic Conference programme with daily showcases.

Aerospace Zone Track demonstrates latest in military avionics capabilities attracting worldwide attention including air force delegations, government officials, OEMs, system manufacturers, integrators, Primes and SMEs. Sessions include Future of Military Rotorcraft chaired by notable rotorcraft journalist Andrew Drweiga featuring dedicated sessions from most eminent rotary authorities including speakers from Joint Helicopter Command and JMR programme office.

Land Zone Track platform focused on land-based operations featuring latest advancements in military vehicles, weapons, ammunition and equipment. Land seminar programme follows four central themes including Develop, Deliver, Generate and Operate and People and Skills focusing on transforming productivity, Army adaptation and intelligent procurement.

Naval Zone Track interactive showcase of latest vessels and maritime technology with distinctive dockside setting delivering showcase of maritime capabilities and international warships including warship visits and waterborne demonstrations.

Security Zone Track dedicated showcase of security equipment, technologies, strategies and systems to counter priority threats such as cyber-attacks, hybrid warfare and terrorism with MOD-led content.

Joint Zone Track features latest Defence and Security products and innovations focusing on C4ISTAR, Communications, Defence Infrastructure, Big Data and Information, Electronic Warfare, Joint Enablers, Logistics, Medical, Robotics and Telemedicine.

Strategic Conference Track includes keynote addresses from top defence officials and military figureheads including UK vision to take bigger share of international defence market post Brexit.

Hubs Tracks include Future Tech Hub recognising critical role information plays in future battlespace, Manufacturing Hub vital part of UK and world economy, Medical Hub essential to global operations and Space Hub recognising military forces increasing dependency on space domain.

DASA Meet the Customer Track invites Defence and Security Accelerator to pitch ideas directly to customer representatives in dynamic informal setting with 5 minutes to present and 10 minutes for discussion.

Session times & schedule

The daily schedule is designed for intensive networking, business platform and live-action demonstrations across four days.

Morning Opening begins with exhibition and theatres opening at 09:30. Strategic Conference and keynote addresses from top defence officials start mid-morning. MOD-led content in 8 seminar theatres begins shortly after with daily showcases and demos.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon Content Blocks include continuous presentations across 5 Zones and 4 Hubs with 8 seminar theatres featuring MOD-led content. Sessions include aerospace avionics capabilities, land-based operations, naval vessels showcase, security equipment strategies and joint enablers.

Lunch and Exhibition Visits include networking on exhibition floor with 1,500+ exhibitors, 35,000 visitors and live-action demonstrations. Over 1,000 defence and security suppliers including all major prime manufacturers plus more than 100 new exhibitors available for meetings.

Afternoon Sessions and Late Networking continue with panel discussions, strategic briefings, capability showcases and exclusive networking opportunities until 17:00 Tuesday to Thursday and until 16:00 Friday to allow travel.

Live Demonstrations include waterborne displays at Royal Victoria Dock, vehicle demonstrations and unmanned systems showcases throughout day.

Ticket types & registration

Ticket types for DSEI Trade Exhibition 2027 are structured for qualified defence and security professionals with strict verification.

Trade Visitor Pass – Free for Official Delegations, Exhibitors Guests, DSEI VIPs, Ministry of Defence visitors UK and overseas, Media and Trade visitors. Anyone wishing to attend exhibition including those invited by exhibitor must preregister via DSEI website and include Exhibitor Guest Code if invited. Ticket price converts to $0 USD for qualified professionals with approved credentials. Without prejudice organisers reserve right to exclude any persons.

Exhibitor Guest Pass – Free for guests invited by 1,500+ exhibitors including prime manufacturers and SMEs. Requires Exhibitor Guest Code during preregistration. Price $0 USD with verification.

Official Delegation Pass – Invitation Only for national delegations, government officials, armed forces representatives and VIP national delegations from around world. Includes access to delegation lounge, strategic briefings and hosted attendance. Price $0 USD invitation only.

Media Pass – Free for verified defence and security media with credentials. Requires prior accreditation via DSEI website. Price $0 USD.

Exhibitor Stand Package for companies showcasing latest technology, strategies and partnerships. Based on previous Aerospace Wales stand co-share example, member cost $2,555 USD based on £2,000 and non-member $3,833 USD based on £3,000 includes exposure on fully branded stand within ADS UK Pavilion. Larger stand packages range from $12,000 USD to $150,000+ USD depending on size and location.

Administration Fee preregistrations may be subject to non-refundable administration fee based on past terms, typically $50 USD to $120 USD for processing.

Registration deadlines

Registration for DSEI 2027 is open via https://www.dsei.co.uk/ with strict vetting process.

Trade Visitor Preregistration must be completed via DSEI website with full credentials and business details. Any person found registering using false information or credentials or deliberately withholding information will have application automatically denied and may be liable to prosecution. Early registration recommended for security clearance.

Exhibitor Guest Code Registration deadline for guests invited by exhibitors requires code entry during registration. Guests should obtain code from exhibiting company before registering.

Exhibitor Booking Deadline for prime positions in ExCeL halls closes well in advance as show regularly hosts 1,500+ exhibitors and space allocated on first-come basis with 1,683 exhibitors projected for 2027.

Delegation and VIP Registration for official delegations, Ministry of Defence visitors and VIPs requires invitation and advanced security vetting, with deadline several weeks before event.

Media Accreditation Deadline for defence media requires verification of outlet credentials and prior coverage, closing two weeks before show.

Exhibitor list & major companies

DSEI 2027 features 1,500+ exhibitors expected representing land, naval, aerospace, cyber and joint domains, including all major prime manufacturers plus more than 100 new exhibitors.

Major exhibitors based on recent editions include Lockheed Martin, Babcock International Group, Advanced Navigation high-accuracy navigation and positioning solutions, IMSAR high-performance synthetic aperture radar systems, Allen-Vanguard with SECURIS mobile counter-drone trailer, Leonardo, Thales, Siemens Digital Industries Software, Faun Trackway, Aerospace Wales, ADS Group, PA Consulting, EY, Babcock, and 1,245 exhibitors in last event including 811 companies from 35 countries.

Exhibitors span Aerospace Zone including military avionics, OEMs, system manufacturers, integrators, Primes and SMEs. Land Zone includes military vehicles, weapons, ammunition and equipment including future soldier uniform. Naval Zone includes vessels and maritime technology with distinctive dockside setting. Security Zone includes security equipment, cyber-attack countermeasures, hybrid warfare and terrorism systems. Joint Zone includes C4ISTAR, Communications, Defence Infrastructure, Big Data, Electronic Warfare, Joint Enablers, Logistics, Medical, Robotics and Telemedicine.

USA Pavilion is largest international group with American exhibitors and top US officials participating in keynotes and seminars. International pavilions include UK, USA, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East.

Full exhibitor list available via https://www.dsei.co.uk/ with over 1,500 exhibitors searchable by zone and hub.

Exhibition halls & floor plan

The exhibition is hosted at ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, occupying large halls plus dockside setting.

ExCeL London Hall Layout provides large open floorplate ideal for defence equipment displays, live demonstration areas including military vehicles, vessels and unmanned systems. Halls host major exhibition plus 8 seminar theatres and Strategic Conference theatre.

Zone Layout includes Aerospace Zone demonstrating latest in military avionics capabilities, Land Zone platform focused on land-based operations, Naval Zone interactive showcase with dockside setting delivering showcase of maritime capabilities and international warships, Security Zone dedicated showcase and Joint Zone featuring latest Defence and Security products.

Hubs Areas include Future Tech Hub fastest-growing area supporting exhibitors breaking into defence sector, Manufacturing Hub bolstering manufacturers looking to break into global Defence and Security sector, Medical Hub dedicated area devoted to championing companies at forefront of military medicine and Space Hub platform to share and discuss next-generation off-world technologies.

Dockside and Waterborne Display includes Royal Victoria Dock for naval vessels, waterborne demonstrations and international warship visits, distinctive feature of DSEI.

Official floor plan and exhibitor locator available via website and event app once registration opens, with prime positions near entrances and Strategic Conference theatre.

Networking & business meetings

Networking and business meetings are central to DSEI proposition as platform for business and global scale defence exhibition connecting governments, national armed forces, industry thought leaders and entire defence and security supply chain.

The event provides range of valuable opportunities for networking, platform for business, access to relevant content and live-action demonstrations, allowing DSEI community to strengthen relationships, share knowledge and engage in latest capabilities. More than 35,000 visitors and 1,500+ exhibitors expected, representing land, naval, aerospace, cyber and joint domains.

Key networking features include daily showcases and demos, strategic briefings, capability showcases, exclusive networking opportunities, 8 seminar theatres featuring MOD-led content, DASA Meet the Customer pitch sessions with 5 minutes to present and 10 minutes for discussion, Future Tech Hub, Manufacturing Hub, Medical Hub and Space Hub networking.

Meetings can be arranged via DSEI Connect platform and onsite meeting areas. Unrivalled networking opportunities within defence sector deliver insights from key decision makers and chance to see latest defence, security and military vehicles, vessels and technology in action.

Co-location with official delegations provides opportunity to engage with VIP national delegations from around world, Japanese Minister of Defence and other ministers in past editions.

Industry sectors & highlights

Industry sectors represented cover full defence and security ecosystem.

Aerospace Sector includes military avionics capabilities, air force delegations, government officials, OEMs, system manufacturers, integrators, Primes, SMEs, military rotorcraft and unmanned aerial vehicles including synthetic aperture radar systems.

Land Sector includes military vehicles, weapons, ammunition and equipment, future soldier uniform, land systems innovation, productivity transformation, Army adaptation and intelligent procurement.

Naval Sector includes vessels and maritime technology, maritime capabilities, international warships, waterborne demonstrations and dockside setting showcase.

Security Sector includes security equipment, technologies, strategies and systems to counter priority threats such as cyber-attacks, hybrid warfare and terrorism.

Joint Sector includes C4ISTAR, Communications, Defence Infrastructure, Big Data and Information, Electronic Warfare, Joint Enablers, Logistics, Medical, Robotics and Telemedicine, plus counter-drone trailers integrating RF, radar and optical detection.

Hubs Sector includes Future Tech Hub critical role information plays in future battlespace, Manufacturing Hub vital part of UK and world economy, Medical Hub military medical capabilities and Space Hub next-generation off-world technologies.

Highlights include 35,000+ visitors, 1,500+ exhibitors, 5 Zones, 4 Hubs, 8 seminar theatres, live-action demonstrations, distinctive dockside setting and UK’s flagship biennial defence event.

Event rules & visitor information

DSEI is a professional trade event with strict visitor information and rules to ensure safe and productive environment.

Trade Event Policy – DSEI is open to Official Delegations, Exhibitors Guests, DSEI VIPs, Ministry of Defence visitors UK and overseas, Media and Trade visitors. Anyone wishing to attend exhibition including those invited by exhibitor must preregister via DSEI website and include Exhibitor Guest Code if invited. Without prejudice organisers reserve right to exclude any persons.

Badge Policy – all attendees including visitors, exhibitors, press and speakers must hold valid badge and be registered for current show. Badges must be worn at all times within halls. Any person found registering using false information or credentials or deliberately withholding information will have application automatically denied and may be liable to prosecution.

Photography Policy – No photography or filming of stands and exhibits is allowed without expressed permission of stand manager. Official photography and filming takes place throughout show.

Security Policy – extensive security including policing and vetting, with cost of policing in past reaching $1.3m including overtime. Attendees subject to bag searches and ID checks. Protests may occur outside venue.

Conduct Policy – organiser Clarion Events expects professional and respectful behaviour. Event is global scale defence exhibition connecting governments and armed forces.

How to get there

DSEI Trade Exhibition 2027 takes place at ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, UK.

By Elizabeth Line and DLR: Fastest route is via Elizabeth Line to Custom House station, which connects directly to ExCeL via covered walkway in just a few minutes and short walk from west entrance. Docklands Light Railway also serves Custom House and Prince Regent stations. From central London, journey times are around 30 minutes from West End and 15 minutes from Canary Wharf.

By Tube and Rail: London Underground Jubilee Line to Canning Town, then DLR to Custom House. National Rail services to Stratford and then Elizabeth Line connection to Custom House.

By Car: ExCeL London is located close to M25, M11 and A406 North Circular. Follow signs for Royal Docks and ExCeL London. Onsite parking available with over 3,700 spaces including accessible parking and EV charging points. Pre-booking recommended during major shows.

By Air: London City Airport is just 5 minutes away by taxi or DLR, with direct flights from across UK and Europe. Heathrow and Gatwick connect via Elizabeth Line and Thameslink.

By Boat: Thames Clippers RB1 river bus service to Royal Wharf and IFS Cloud Cable Car provide scenic alternatives.

Public transport & parking

Public transport and parking at ExCeL London are extensive and designed for large-scale events with 35,000+ visitors.

Parking includes 3,700 spaces available across well-signposted car parks with electronic signage directing you to specific halls. Parking is chargeable with pre-bookable options via ExCeL parking portal. Typical parking charges convert to approximately $25 USD to $38 USD per day. EV charging spaces available in designated areas. Onsite parking at ExCeL London, however spaces are limited so advisable to book parking in advance.

Shuttle and Rail Link: Free connection via Elizabeth Line from Custom House to ExCeL halls, running every few minutes. DLR services connect car parks and surrounding areas.

Train Services: Elizabeth Line provides hassle-free access from Custom House directly to ExCeL, with direct services from central London, Heathrow and beyond. Custom House station serves venue on both Elizabeth line and DLR, short walk from west entrance.

Accessibility: Includes pre-bookable accessible parking spaces, step-free access throughout halls and accessible facilities.

Additional Services: Include free Wi-Fi for qualified visitors, on-site support throughout event, catering outlets, taxi ranks and cycle parking.

Accommodation areas

Accommodation near ExCeL London is extensive due to proximity to Royal Docks, Canary Wharf and central London.

Onsite and Immediate Vicinity includes hotels within walking distance such as Aloft London ExCeL, DoubleTree by Hilton London ExCeL, Crowne Plaza London Docklands and Novotel London ExCeL. These offer premium comfort, onsite restaurants and direct access via covered walkways to halls.

Royal Docks and Canning Town includes Premier Inn London Docklands, Holiday Inn Express Royal Docks and other budget to mid-range options with business facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Canary Wharf and Central London including Marriott Canary Wharf, Hilton Canary Wharf and numerous aparthotels accessible via DLR and Elizabeth Line, offering more evening entertainment options.

Early booking is essential as ExCeL hosts multiple events concurrently and hotels sell out quickly during major defence expos. Official accommodation information available via show website https://www.dsei.co.uk/ with special rates often available via official housing partner.

Previous year’s highlights

Previous year’s highlights demonstrate most successful DSEI to date with extensive growth.

Recent editions featured over 1,000 defence and security suppliers including all major prime manufacturers plus more than 100 new exhibitors, daily showcases and demos plus unparalleled content programme featuring keynote addresses from top defence officials and military figureheads and eight seminar theatres featuring MOD-led content.

DSEI Japan featured 50 world-class speakers in conference and seminar programme including Jerry Martinez US Air Force Retd Former Commander US Forces Japan, Richard Court AC Ambassador to Japan Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Gen Nakatani Member of House of Representatives Former Japanese Minister of Defence, attracting VIP national delegations from around world and attended by Japanese Minister of Defence Taro Kono.

DSEI London recent editions included top US officials participating in seminar programme with American exhibitors largest international group including USA Pavilion and US Army Deputy Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Erik C Peterson delivering first international keynote address and CIA Chief Information Officer Juliane J Gallina.

Red Arrows opened DSEI with aerial display, while seminar programme included engaging presentations from international speakers including Michael Vaccaro director at Office of Strategic Industries and Economic Security US Department of Commerce and Maj Gen Kathryn Toohey head of land capability Australian Army.

DSEI 2025 featured new mobile counter-drone trailer debuts SECURIS integrating RF, radar and optical detection with RF defeat.

Official registration & tickets

Official registration and tickets are managed through official website https://www.dsei.co.uk/.

Official Website: https://www.dsei.co.uk/
Contact Email: customersolutions@dsei.co.uk
Contact Phone: +44 (0)330 912 1213
Venue: ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, UK
Attendance: 35,000+ visitors expected, 1,500+ exhibitors expected, 5 Zones Aerospace Land Naval Security Joint, 4 Hubs Future Tech Manufacturing Medical Space
Organiser: Clarion Events Ltd
Registration: Trade visitors must preregister via DSEI website and include Exhibitor Guest Code if invited – Free for qualified professionals $0 USD – Administration fee may apply $50 USD to $120 USD – Exhibitor stand packages from $2,555 USD member / $3,833 USD non-member for shared pavilion to $150,000+ USD for large stands

Visitor attendance is free for qualified professionals with approved credentials via official site. Exhibitor enquiries for stands showcasing latest technology should be made via customersolutions@dsei.co.uk. Beware of third-party sites charging fees – only official source is dsei.co.uk. No photography or filming without permission.