PARIS – The largest global defense and security exhibition, Eurosatory 2026, has closed its doors with a record number of participants. This prestigious event, held in France, featured over 2,600 exhibitors from 68 countries worldwide. Organizers hailed this year's edition as exceptionally successful, highlighting the growing importance of the defense industry in a time of increasing geopolitical tensions. COGES Events, a subsidiary of the professional association GICAT, representing French manufacturers of land and air defense systems, praised the "record attendance" and described the fair as "an event at the intersection of technological innovation, strategic thinking, and international cooperation."

Despite the ongoing armed conflicts around the world – from the war in Ukraine to tensions in the Middle East and the growing rivalry between major powers – the atmosphere at the fair seemed distant from the actual battlefields. In the modern exhibition halls, the focus was primarily on expert discussions about the technological parameters of the latest military equipment. Visitors and delegations from dozens of countries had the opportunity to learn about the latest armored vehicles, unmanned systems, air defense systems, and advanced technologies utilizing artificial intelligence. Discussions centered on the range of missiles, the performance of propulsion systems, the autonomous capabilities of drones, or the possibilities of integrating modern sensors on the battlefield.

Analysts point out that the growing interest in the defense sector is closely linked to a significant increase in military budgets worldwide. Many countries are investing billions of dollars in modernizing their armed forces and strengthening their defense capabilities in response to the deteriorating security situation. According to experts, the defense industry is experiencing a period of extraordinary expansion. Manufacturers are reporting an increase in orders, and many companies are expanding their production capacity to meet the growing demand from governments and armed forces.

While critics raise ethical concerns about the increasing arms buildup and fear a new global arms race, representatives of the defense sector argue that strengthening defense capabilities is essential in the current security environment. Eurosatory once again confirmed its position as one of the most important global platforms, where representatives of governments, armed forces, industry, and the general public meet to discuss the future of security and defense.

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