Counter-drone defence in focus: “DroneVation & Defence” symposium premieres in Vienna

On 23 September, Vienna will host the first “DroneVation & Defence” symposium, organised by Militär Aktuell. Throughout the day, talks, discussions and an accompanying exhibition will focus on modern drone technology and counter-drone defence.

Modern warfare is increasingly shaped by drones, whether in Ukraine, the Middle East or other conflict zones worldwide. Their tasks include reconnaissance, surveillance and attack, confronting military and security policy strategies around the globe with new challenges. At the same time, demand is rising for effective countermeasures to protect critical infrastructure and deployed forces.

This is why the all-day event is being held for the first time. Expert talks, panel discussions and an exhibition form its core – the focus is on current trends and technological advances in unmanned systems and how to counter them.

Speakers from the Bundesheer and industry

The list of speakers includes prominent names, such as Austria's National Armaments Director Lieutenant General Harald Vodosek, Air Chief Major General Gerfried Promberger and military analyst Colonel (General Staff) Markus Reisner. Also confirmed are Matthias Diem and Thomas Bernhard, both experts from Rheinmetall Air Defence, as well as Stephan Kraschansky, managing director of Aaronia Austria, and Swiss ground-based air defence (GBAD) specialist Fabian Ochsner.

One of the topics of the panel discussions is the protection of critical infrastructure. Brigadier Rudolf Zauner, head of the Science, Research and Development department at the Austrian Ministry of Defence (BMLV), will examine with other experts how innovations in drones and counter-drone systems can be specifically promoted and brought to the troops more quickly.

Exhibitors and start-up area on counter-drone defence

Numerous well-known companies have already confirmed their participation as exhibitors, including Rheinmetall, Aaronia, Lockheed Martin, Thales, General Atomics, Hensoldt, the AIT, ODM, Will-Burt, My Defence, Walaris, HAE, Pankl, TRL Drones, PwC and Edge Group/Halcon. Start-ups will have their own area so that innovative young companies can present themselves.

The programme is set to grow further in the coming weeks. The organiser is already in advanced talks with further exhibitors and speakers from Austria and abroad.