Defence

Protecting freedom

European Defence & Security Summit 2024

ASD and European Business Summits are pleased to announce the 7th European Defence & Security Summit, which will take place in Brussels on 17 April 2024.

2024 will be a pivotal year for Europe’s security. Against this background, the 2024 edition of the European Defence and Security Summit will focus on the defence industrial dimension of European security. It will bring together European leaders and practitioners from across national governments, EU institutions, NATO, industry, and armed forces to discuss how Europe can meet todays and tomorrow’s security challenges

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In the face of challenges such as the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the European defence industry plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our values and ensuring the security of our citizens. Our commitment is to a Europe that stands ready and able to defend, not just in times of crisis, but as a constant assurance of protection.

At the core of our armed forces' mission lies the defence of national territory and that of our allies against external threats. And the armed forces are at the front line in responding to natural disasters, offering support in crises, both at home and abroad.

To effectively fulfil their role as protectors of our security, our armed forces must be equipped with cutting-edge technology. The European defence industry, through its technological innovation and expertise, develops, produces and maintains the equipment our armed forces use every day.

Through sustained innovation and ongoing investment, our industry actively contributes to securing a future where the foundations of peace, freedom, and citizen well-being in Europe are safeguarded.

Key data Defence

  • 52 bn

    Exports

  • 135 bn

    Turnover in 2022

  • 516,000

    Employees in 2022

  • 10 %

    Growth in turnover

Value to society

Explore the diverse and significant contributions our industry makes to society, showcasing the far-reaching impact of our work.

ASD initiatives

Key focus areas for our daily work as the voice for the defence industry in Europe.

Strategic objectives

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine marks a paradigm shift in European security, threatening the rules-based international order and bringing large-scale war back to the continent. As a consequence, Europe must urgently enhance its capacity to defend its citizen...
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Contacts

  • Burkard Schmitt

  • Vassilis Theodosopoulos

    • Defence and Security Manager
  • Gabriel Ratiu

    • Defence Manager