Defence &
Dual-use
Strengthening security and accelerating technological innovation in the Baltic Sea Region and beyond. SSD Expo 2027 brings together military, civil, and industrial stakeholders to shape the future of defence and dual-use capability.
Why Defence & Dual-use
Innovation Matters
In today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape, nations must prepare for both traditional and hybrid challenges – from kinetic conflict to cyber warfare and civil disruption. Dual-use technology plays a pivotal role – solutions that serve both military and civilian purposes, such as unmanned systems, satellite networks, communications, energy infrastructure, and AI-based decision systems, are redefining how governments and industries collaborate to strengthen national resilience.
SSD Expo 2027 serves as a catalyst for connecting innovators with decision-makers across the defence and security ecosystem, enabling the development of interoperable, sustainable, and deployable solutions for land, air, sea, cyber, and space.
Over 60% of NATO innovation funding in 2024 is directed toward dual-use solutions. AI, ISR, and robotics now rank among the top five defence investment priorities, and more than 70% of EU defence-focused R&D companies are actively developing civilian applications. Baltic Sea Region countries are increasing defence budgets by up to 40% year-over-year, making this one of Europe’s fastest-growing strategic investment zones.
Key Benefits of Focusing on
Defence & Dual-use Innovation
Three Core Pillars
Multi-Domain Defence Systems
SSD 2027 highlights innovation across land, sea, air, cyber, and space — with a focus on interoperable, scalable platforms. From modular vehicles and integrated command systems to AI-enabled sensors and battlefield robotics, this domain invites defence manufacturers, integrators, and software providers to showcase capabilities aligned with NATO requirements.
Civil-Military Technology Transfer
Dual-use innovation thrives on collaboration. This section explores how civilian R&D (in fields like energy, transport, telecom, and AI) can be adapted for military readiness. Topics include 5G/6G battlefield comms, drone-based infrastructure inspection, autonomous emergency response units, and deployable field hospitals.
National Security Through Innovation
As threats evolve, so must procurement models and national strategies. This area focuses on cyber resilience, information warfare, satellite-based defence, and critical infrastructure protection — all of which increasingly rely on commercial partnerships and tech startups. SSD 2027 provides a rare chance to meet investors, government delegations, and public–private security coalitions in one venue.
Who Should Exhibit
Under This Theme?
Defence contractors, dual-use tech developers, cybersecurity firms, research labs, drone manufacturers, AI/ML solution providers, civil infrastructure suppliers, and NATO-compatible system developers.
Any product or technology that has both military and civilian applications — for example, GPS, drones, secure communications, AI threat detection, energy systems, logistics automation, etc.
You gain high-level visibility, procurement access, and media coverage — while engaging directly with Baltic, European, and allied security leaders.
Apply as an exhibitor or contact us for a tailored sponsorship or visibility package. Opportunities range from demo space and speaking slots to custom matchmaking and brand activations.
Showcase your dual-use solutions at SSD Expo 2027 and gain direct access to NATO buyers, Baltic decision-makers, and global strategic partners.