Registration Is Now Open!
Registration is now open for the 2026 NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference & Exhibition (ETC), co-located with Data Analytics & Decision Support (DA/DS) Conference, where government, industry, and academic leaders will convene to explore the emerging technologies, data-driven capabilities, and financial management strategies shaping the future of national security and defense.
Join us for three days of programming focused on emerging defense technologies and their role in shaping the future of national security.
The event opens with a day of classified programming featuring in-depth discussions on mission-critical capabilities, including discussions of capability gaps, emerging threats, and new program initiatives. Topic areas for sessions include EUCOM and AFRICOM priorities, Strategic Capabilities Office initiatives, electronics, autonomous systems, and cyber operations. This will be followed by two days of unclassified sessions showcasing applied research, prototyping, and operational deployments across defense innovation communities.
Across all sessions, participants will explore how emerging technologies are being developed, integrated, and scaled to meet evolving defense challenges.
Register today to engage with defense innovators focused on emerging technologies and their impact on national security.
What to Expect
- Keynotes & Panels: Hear from senior government, military, and industry leaders on the technologies and priorities shaping national security.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with decision-makers, innovators, researchers, and defense professionals from across the ecosystem.
- Government–Industry 1-on-1 Meetings: Engage directly with government and industry leaders to discuss challenges, opportunities, and collaboration.
- Exhibits & Technology Demonstrations: Explore cutting-edge technologies and emerging capabilities transforming defense and military operations.
- NDIA Global Defense Hackathon: Join innovators and technologists in developing solutions for real-world defense challenges, including AI, autonomy, contested logistics, and force readiness.
Help shape the NDIA Global Defense Hackathon 2026! Complete our brief survey to share your interests, expertise, and participation goals.
Survey Deadline: July 31, 2026
Exhibits and Sponsorship Opportunities
Exhibit and sponsorship opportunities are now available! You can find the full prospectus by visiting our website.
We welcome organizations across defense, government, academia, and industry that are driving innovation in advanced technologies, AI and data analytics, cybersecurity, research and development, advanced manufacturing, workforce development, and international partnerships.
For exhibit and sponsorship opportunities, contact Allison Hitchner at ahitchner@NDIA.org
Confirmed Speakers
NEW Classified Programming
Gain access to a full day of classified programming at the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA), focused on emerging technologies and critical national security challenges before joining two days of unclassified programming at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Be part of the conversations shaping the future of defense innovation and register today to secure your place at ETC 2026.
Planning your trip to ETC 2026?
Explore hotel options and travel information on our Accommodations page.
Stay tuned for updates on registration, speakers, and more at our website.
We look forward to seeing you in Washington, D.C.
Elevate Your Impact with an
September 8, 2026
The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) 730 East Glebe Road,
Alexandria, VA 22035
September 9 – 10, 2026
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW,
Washington, DC 20001
Contact
Undral Dalai
Associate Director, Affiliate Meetings
udalai@NDIA.org
(703) 247-2582
National Defense Industrial Association | 2101 Wilson Boulevard | Suite 700 | Arlington, VA 22201
FOG HORN 