In mid-May, Bratislava once again became the hub of Central Europe’s defense industry. The IDEB Defence & Security 2026 international trade fair brought manufacturers of military equipment, military representatives, politicians, and defense experts to the Slovak capital. In addition to traditional global brands, this year’s event featured projects developed through international industrial cooperation. The CSG Group attracted the most attention and had the largest exhibition space, presenting a new strategic partnership with Turkey’s FNSS and the world premiere of the CFL-120 Karpat combat vehicle.

Video: IDEB 2026: Bratislava Showcased the Future of European Defense / CZ DEFENCE

The IDEB Defence & Security 2026 trade fair, held May 12–14 at the Incheba Expo Bratislava complex, once again confirmed its position as one of the region’s most significant defense events. Manufacturers of armored vehicles, ammunition, unmanned systems, and communication technologies, as well as government representatives addressing the future of European defense, gathered in one place. The main theme of this year’s event was not only new technologies but also the European defense industry’s ability to form partnerships, localize production, and respond to lessons learned from current conflicts. It was here that the CSG Group made its strongest impression, with one of the largest exhibits at the fair.

According to the organizers, this year’s event was attended by more than 150 companies from 17 countries, which showcased hundreds of defense and security systems – ranging from armored vehicles and artillery to unmanned systems, as well as cybersecurity technologies and critical infrastructure protection. In addition to traditional segments of the defense industry, technologies focused on digitalization, monitoring systems, and logistical support are also gaining increasing prominence.

Strong Participation by Major Manufacturers

The trade show featured major global manufacturers of defense technology. Exhibitors included Airbus, Lockheed Martin, Thales, Saab, Rafael, ThyssenKrupp, Colt CZ Group, IAI, and others, who showcased parts of their portfolios designed for military and security forces. The Slovak defense industry was also strongly represented. The domestic DMD Group attracted significant attention, presenting new systems including the EVA M3 6×6 self-propelled howitzer, the SAM120 mortar system, and the CPVII mobile command post.

In addition to established manufacturers, new industrial alliances have also made a significant impact. One of the most significant announcements on the first day of the trade fair was the unveiling of a strategic partnership between the CSG Group and the Turkish company FNSS Savunma Sistemleri, focused on the joint development, production, and commercial support of armored platforms for European and other international markets. The project plans to utilize the CSG Group’s production capacities in Slovakia, facilitate technology transfer, and involve local suppliers.

CSG: From Ammunition to Armored Vehicles and Air Defense

The CSG Group undoubtedly had the largest exhibit at this year’s IDEB, showcasing a broad portfolio of defense technologies in Bratislava that included ground systems, armored vehicles, ammunition, and air defense technologies. The exhibit demonstrated how the Czech group has transformed itself from a regional manufacturer into a major global player in recent years.

“CSG is presenting its portfolio of ground systems here – primarily wheeled vehicles, but also tracked vehicles – as well as its ammunition portfolio, particularly large-caliber ammunition, which is also manufactured in Slovakia,” Andrej Čírtek, spokesperson for the CSG Group, told CZ DEFENCE. According to Čírtek, it is precisely the integration of production in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and other European countries that allows the group to respond flexibly to the growing demand for defense technologies.

“We are at home in both Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The fact that we have production facilities here represents a strategic advantage not only for us, but also for these countries,” Čírtek emphasized. He also noted the growing importance of the defense industry for the Slovak economy, where, according to him, the sector accounts for approximately two percent of GDP.

Despite its strong position in Central Europe, CSG remains primarily an export-oriented group. “More than 90 percent of our revenue is generated in NATO markets, allied countries, or Southeast Asia,” said Čírtek. According to him, expansion into the United States – the world’s largest market for defense technologies – also plays a significant role. The exhibition also featured air defense systems utilizing artificial intelligence, developed by RETIA, which are designed to increase the effectiveness of defense against a wide range of threats – from small drones to larger aerial targets.

World Premiere of the CFL-120 Karpat Medium Tank

Visitors’ attention was drawn to the world premiere of the CFL-120 Karpat combat platform, which CSG unveiled in collaboration with FNSS and Leonardo. The vehicle combines the Turkish Kaplan platform, the Italian Hitfact MkII turret, and the CSG Group’s industrial capabilities in Slovakia. “This is a medium tank that offers an interesting alternative to main battle tanks. For the price of a single 60- to 70-ton tank, you can acquire two to three vehicles in this category, which have lower logistical requirements and greater mobility,” explained Andrej Čírtek. Michal Baláž, CEO of MSM Land Systems, also presented the platform in greater detail. “This vehicle represents a very good compromise between price and capabilities. It is designed as a modern replacement for older systems and meets NATO standards, including the ability to use various types of 120mm ammunition,” said Baláž. According to him, the system’s main advantages include the separation of ammunition from the crew compartment, a higher level of protection, and the ability to integrate active protection systems, including defense against drones. “All ammunition is located in the turret, so the crew is separated from the ammunition supply. Compared to older Eastern Bloc technology, this is a significantly safer solution,” added Baláž.

Gökhan Tekin, a representative of FNSS, added the Turkish partner’s perspective, stating that the CFL-120 Karpat represents a response to the evolving nature of the modern battlefield. In addition to firepower itself, mobility, operating costs, and the ability to deploy rapidly are becoming increasingly important. “The CFL-120 is a joint development program based on the Kaplan platform, Leonardo’s Hitfact turret, and the CSG industrial base,” said Tekin. According to him, the new system provides 120mm firepower at approximately one-third the cost of a main battle tank, which could be a decisive factor for many armies when modernizing their armored forces. “Recent conflicts have shown that cost-effectiveness, logistics, and vehicle mobility are becoming increasingly important. Lighter vehicles can offer comparable firepower with significantly lower operational requirements,” explained Tekin. 

The CFL-120 Karpat has a combat weight of approximately 35 tons, can achieve up to Level 5 ballistic protection, and has a crew of three to four. According to FNSS, development of the current configuration has been underway since 2020 and builds on the Kaplan platform, which is already in service with several foreign armies. “It’s a proven concept. Now we want to offer it with greater firepower and introduce it to European markets,” said Tekin. According to him, international industrial cooperation played a significant role. “FNSS brings experience in the design of armored vehicles, CSG has one of the strongest industrial bases in Europe, and Leonardo provides advanced turret systems. These three pillars have come together in a single platform to create a solution for the next generation of European defense systems,” Tekin summarized for CZ DEFENCE.

EVPÚ Defence Industry: Slovak-Developed Turret Systems Respond to New Battlefield Threats

Among the companies that showcased technologies developed in response to lessons learned from modern conflicts at the trade fair was the Slovak firm EVPÚ Defence Industry. The company has long focused on the development of remotely operated weapon stations, unmanned turrets, fire control systems, and electro-optical solutions for ground vehicles. Its products are part of the arsenal of armed forces in Slovakia and abroad. The company’s exhibition and latest developments were presented by Patrik Hlůšek, Sales Director of EVPÚ Defence Industry, who highlighted in particular the ongoing development of the Turra 30 V10 unmanned turret. “This is a version that already integrates features responsive to the modern battlefield – such as 360-degree radar coverage capable of detecting drones or active protection systems,” said Hlůšek.

The new-generation turret is being developed in response to the growing importance of protection against unmanned aerial vehicles, which have become one of the greatest threats to armored vehicles in recent years. In addition to standard armament, the system can also integrate Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles or other means designed to defend against drones. The Turra turret utilizes a 30mm Bushmaster Mk44S automatic cannon, capable of firing programmable ammunition, and is complemented by modern sensors and systems that enhance the crew’s situational awareness. “This is a trend through which we are responding to market demands. We are seeing growing interest in systems capable of combining traditional combat capabilities with protection against new threats, particularly drones,” added Hlůšek.  EVPÚ is also developing cooperation with European defense system manufacturers and recently signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ).

Turra technology was not only on display at the EVPÚ booth. It was also integrated into the Patria exhibit, where it was part of the AMV XP 8×8 vehicle, and appeared in the PGZ presentation as well, underscoring the growing importance of the Slovak system within the broader context of European defense cooperation.

Pramacom: The Future Belongs to Connected Soldiers and FPV Drones

The Pramacom exhibit featured, for example, the company’s own FPV drones manufactured in Olomouc, night vision systems, and solutions enabling digital connectivity among soldiers on the battlefield.

“We’re not just trying to develop standard FPV drones. We’re adding signal relay capabilities and external antennas, which help keep the operator safer,” said Filip Chlup, a technical specialist at the company. According to him, the company is testing transmissions over distances of several dozen kilometers and looking for ways to minimize the risk of the operator’s position being detected. A significant part of the presentation also focused on technologies enabling a networked battlefield, where soldiers share information in real time, similar to how mobile apps work today.

Tatra Defence: Enhanced Protection and a Modernized Pandur

Tatra Defence also made a significant Czech contribution. The main focus was on the Pandur 8x8 EVO vehicle, which offers enhanced crew protection and meets the current requirements of European armies. “The Pandur EVO is a modernized platform that provides a higher level of crew protection and better performance compared to previous generations,” said Vojtěch Verner, Project Director at Tatra Defence Vehicle. According to manufacturers, the development of armored vehicles is increasingly focused on a combination of protection, mobility, modularity, and the ability to respond to new threats, particularly unmanned systems.

Political Dimension: Modern Armies, the Defense Industry, and Europe’s Security Responsibilities

In addition to armored vehicles, drone technology, and air defense systems, this year’s IDEBu was also dominated by a broader debate on the future of European defense. Defense ministers, military leaders, and representatives of the defense industry gathered in Bratislava to discuss the modernization of armed forces, alliance commitments, and Europe’s ability to build its own manufacturing capabilities.

The issue of the interconnection between the defense industry, political decisions, and military capabilities came up repeatedly during the trade fair. According to many participants, the modernization of armed forces is no longer merely a matter of acquiring new equipment, but also of ensuring the production, maintenance, and long-term sustainability of defense systems right here in Europe.

Czech Minister of Defense Jaromír Zůna also spoke to CZ DEFENCE during the fair; in Bratislava, he held a series of meetings with foreign partners, including the Slovak Minister of Defense, representatives of other countries, and representatives of the defense industry.

The discussion focused not only on the modernization of the armed forces, but also on the development of Czech-Slovak cooperation and the future of defense investments. According to the minister, it is not the amount of defense spending itself that is decisive, but rather the resulting capabilities of the armed forces. “The primary goal is to build modern, technologically advanced armed forces. Percentage-based indicators of defense spending are secondary. What is important is that the funds invested actually lead to the capabilities the armies need,” said Minister Zůna. He also emphasized that the Czech Republic and Slovakia share a similar view on the development of defense capabilities and the future direction of European security policy. “Both the Czech Republic and Slovakia see the primary purpose in fulfilling the military capabilities and security needs of our countries. In this regard, there is complete agreement between us,” said Zůna. According to him, Czech-Slovak industrial cooperation, which has continued to develop in recent years, also plays a significant role. According to the minister, relations between the two countries are not limited to the political level but increasingly include joint defense industry projects, the modernization of equipment, and the exchange of expertise. “The Slovak side has an interest in procuring products from the Czech defense industry, just as we do. The prospects for joint cooperation are very promising,” stated the defense minister.

According to him, support for the domestic defense industry is becoming one of Europe’s key security issues. Experience in recent years shows that the ability to manufacture equipment, ammunition, or specialized systems directly within European countries can be just as important as military capabilities themselves. “It is essential that states be able to build their defense capabilities in cooperation with domestic and European industry. Without an industrial base, long-term defense readiness is not possible,” emphasized Zůna, who also noted the ongoing involvement of the Czech Armed Forces in strengthening NATO’s eastern flank, including the presence of Czech soldiers in Slovakia: “This is a priority for us. The Czech Republic has long been engaged along the Alliance’s eastern border, and we will continue to do so because the security of our allies is also our security.”

IDEB 2026 Charted a New Course for European Defense

This year’s edition of the trade fair confirmed that the defense industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation. In addition to the traditional emphasis on performance and firepower, industrial cooperation, drone defense, battlefield digitization, system interoperability, and the ability to manufacture equipment directly in Europe are becoming increasingly important.

IDEB 2026 was not merely a showcase of technology. Above all, it reflected the evolving landscape of European security, where the ability to combine industrial capabilities, new technologies, and political will into a functional defense ecosystem is playing an increasingly important role.