AED Cluster Portugal will co-organise and host the ASD Convention 2026, in partnership with ASD – the AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe. The event will take place between 27 and 29 April in Oeiras and Cascais. The event will bring together some of Europe’s leading decision-makers and companies in the aerospace, defence and security sectors, providing the Portuguese industry with a unique opportunity to enhance its international visibility and forge new strategic contacts.
The staging of the ASD Convention 2026 in Portugal marks the return of this European event to the country, following AED Cluster Portugal’s hosting of the 2012 edition. This continuity reflects recognition of the national ecosystem’s capacity to host initiatives of high strategic importance and reinforces Portugal’s position as a credible and active partner within the European industrial landscape.
Opportunities for the domestic industry
Over the course of two days, executives from major European industrial groups, institutional representatives from the European Union and NATO, policy-makers, investors, international experts and innovative SMEs will come together to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector’s future.
The conference will provide an ideal platform for developing institutional and business contacts, fostering new opportunities for industrial cooperation, integration into international supply chains and access to future European funding and innovation programmes.
Programme dedicated to SMEs
For the first time, the ASD convention programme includes a programme that will combine strategic plenary sessions, networking events and initiatives specifically aimed at SMEs. Participating companies will have the opportunity to interact directly with leading European manufacturers and integrators, institutional partners and potential investors.
The section dedicated to SMEs will be of particular relevance to the national ecosystem, as it brings Portuguese companies into contact with decision-makers in the fields of investment, procurement and technological development. The programme will also enable participants to explore European instruments supporting innovation and to identify potential avenues for integration into strategic supply chains.
Plenary sessions
The plenary sessions will address key issues for the future of the European aeronautics, defence and security industry, including industrial competitiveness, reform of public procurement models, technological sovereignty, European funding, dual-use technologies, cybersecurity and sustainability in aviation.
As co-organiser and host of the event, AED Cluster Portugal reaffirms its commitment to the internationalisation of the national industry, promoting the integration of Portuguese companies into global value chains and creating the conditions for the development of new opportunities for European industrial cooperation.
Networking opportunities
The programme will be complemented by a number of networking opportunities, including a series of B2B meetings and a cocktail reception on 27 April, and a gala dinner on 28 April.
Tickets are now available and are limited: https://www.b2match.com/e/asd-lisbon-2026