FEINDEF is a success in terms of the presence of companies and visitors. What can we expect to see at this year's edition compared to previous editions?
FEINDEF 25 will be the largest edition to date, with more than 600 exhibitors, the participation of 93 international delegations, and a nearly 60% increase in exhibition space. This year's edition features two new pavilions, one of which will be used for static displays. This will offer a total of 5,900 m² of static exhibition space, an increase of 4,020 m² compared to the previous edition.
On the international level, what major achievements would you highlight regarding the representation of foreign industry?
The exhibition will feature representation from 57 countries, through 187 international companies, 50% more than the previous edition, and, for the first time, international pavilions (7 in total), consolidating FEINDEF as a leading global meeting point in just four editions. Furthermore, we have the support of nine official international organizations such as NATO, the European Defense Agency (EDA), and the United Nations, strengthening international cooperation and positioning FEINDEF as a key event on the global agenda of defense and security trade fairs.
What do you think FEINDEF contributes to a Europe determined to find its technological and industrial autonomy in the field of defense?
In just four editions, FEINDEF has become a strategic platform for industrial collaboration in Europe. The exhibition fosters technology transfer, encourages the participation of companies in EU framework programs, and strengthens European strategic autonomy by promoting innovation and the development of its own capabilities.
How do you think the national defense sector will evolve in light of the enormous planned investment?
The new European Union investment plans will strengthen our defense industry, which will translate into a boost to innovation and job creation. Furthermore, in the coming years, we will move toward the necessary greater integration with European industry, which will allow the SME (Small and Medium-sized Enterprise) ecosystem to grow and strengthen the supply chain to ensure strategic autonomy.
Spain is a country of SME and so is the defense sector. What framework does the fair offer to this sector of small and medium-sized businesses, which have always been characterized by their agility and adaptability?
Without a doubt, small and medium-sized businesses are among our top priorities. In this sense, FEINDEF provides SMEs with a key space to connect with large leading companies, facilitating their integration into the supply chain and access to European projects. This fair is a unique opportunity for these companies to showcase their innovations and access the new international markets that are emerging, as the visibility that FEINDEF brings to these companies is extraordinary.
You recently spoke about the need to strengthen the sector's supply chain. Do you think companies and governments are taking this need into account? How should this weakness be addressed?
Strengthening the supply chain is a priority objective, not only in Spain but also at the European level. Governments and industry are aligned to ensure the production and supply of critical technologies, and to this end, we must make progress in fostering public-private collaboration, investing in R&D&I, and facilitating access for SMEs and startups to European programs.
FEINDEF began in a relatively favorable environment for the sector, and today it is called upon to adapt and grow within a European framework of high demand. How do you envision the future role of the fair in this context?
Looking ahead, FEINDEF will continue to consolidate its position as a leading defense and security event in Europe. Its continued growth and ability to attract key players position it as an essential forum for international cooperation, innovation, and strengthening the sector in a context of high demand and technological transformation.
