Photonics4Defense 2026: Technology Exchange & Matchmaking

Connecting defense challenges with photonics innovation

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Why participate
Thematic areas
Agenda
Matchmaking
Who should attend

Photonics4Defense is an international event held during the International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO) in Kielce. Its mission is to connect providers of innovative photonics technologies with representatives of the defence industry, system integrators, and end users.

The event has been designed as a platform for technology exchange and collaboration. Participants will gain insights into the current needs of the defence sector, discover the latest solutions developed by companies and research organizations, and establish valuable business connections through dedicated matchmaking sessions.

Why participate?

  • Learn about the current technology needs of the defence industry and end users.
  • Discover innovative solutions in photonics, optoelectronics, quantum technologies, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Meet defence system manufacturers, technology providers, and research & innovation partners.
  • Schedule one-to-one business meetings through the B2Match matchmaking platform.
  • Explore opportunities for international collaboration and funding of research and innovation projects.

Thematic Areas

Battlefield Awareness

Advanced imaging, detection, and battlefield surveillance technologies, including optoelectronic systems, sensors, optical components, and metrology solutions for defence applications.

Secure Navigation & Communications

Resilient navigation and communication systems, quantum technologies, fiber-optic gyroscopes, and solutions enhancing the security and resilience of defence systems.

Resilient Manufacturing

Advanced manufacturing technologies supporting secure and resilient supply chains, additive manufacturing (3D printing), digital spare parts inventories, and quality assurance technologies.

Agenda

10.00 Opening

10:15–10:45 – Defence Sector Technology Needs

  • Civil–Military Cooperation – TBA
  • PCO S.A. – Optoelectronic Systems Integration
  • MBDA Poland Ltd. – Emerging Technology Requirements

10:45–12:00 – Technology Pitches & Collaboration Opportunities

Session I: Battlefield Awareness
– Solaris Optics: TBA
– Vigo Photonics: TBA
– XTPL: Transparent EMI Shielding Printed on Curved Optics for Defense Applications

Session II: Secure Navigation & Communications
– Creotech Quantum: Quantum Secure Communication Systems
– Elproma Electronics: FORSEM – The Photonics Loop Interferometry for Secure Navigation in GPS-denied Environments on Earth, Space and Sea.

Session III: Resilient Manufacturing
– Smarttech: Virtual Warehouse of Critical Parts
– Proto Labs: Advanced Drone Manufacturing with Multi Jet Fusion
– Inframet: Quality Assurance of Electro-optical Imaging and Laser Systems for Defense

12:00–12:10 – Summary: Technology Needs & Collaboration Opportunities
Introduction to the matchmaking sessions and invitation to participate in one-to-one meetings.

12:10–12:50 – Lunch & Networking

12:50–13:35 – Discussion Panel
“How Can Photonics Technology Providers Become Trusted Partners for the Defence Industry?”

13:35–13:50 – From Innovation to Collaboration
Funding instruments and support mechanisms for technology development, consortium building, and international collaborative projects.

  • TBA – Industry Contact Point Industry 4.0
  • PhotonHub Phactory: deep tech support in photonics innovations for defense – Warsaw University of Technology
  • BaltiQC: Quantum Communication Link in the Baltic Sea Region – OptecBB

13:50–15:00 – B2Match Matchmaking Session

Pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings arranged through the B2Match platform.
Matchmaking meetings will continue on 11 September at the PPTF booth.

Technology Pitches & Collaboration Opportunities

During a series of short, dynamic presentations, event partners will showcase their technologies and collaboration opportunities for the defence sector.

Each presentation will conclude with a “LOOKING FOR” slide, where speakers will present:

  • Technologies and expertise offered,
  • The types of partners they are looking for,
  • A QR code linking directly to their B2Match profile, enabling participants to schedule a one-to-one meeting.

Participants will be able to initiate the matchmaking process already during the technology pitch session.

Matchmaking

An integral part of the event will be the B2Match platform, enabling participants to schedule one-to-one meetings in advance.

September 10
Following the conference programme, a dedicated B2B/B2G matchmaking session will take place in the event venue.

September 11
Participants will also be able to continue their discussions during MSPO at the PPTF booth, where a dedicated meeting area will be available for pre-arranged business meetings.

Who Should Attend?

The event is intended for representatives of:

  • Defence system manufacturers and system integrators,
  • Companies developing photonics and optoelectronic technologies,
  • Businesses operating in the fields of electronics, semiconductors, and quantum technologies,
  • Manufacturers of unmanned systems,
  • Research and technology organizations (RTOs) and research institutions,
  • Organizations supporting innovation and R&D funding,
  • Government authorities, public agencies, and end users interested in next-generation technologies for defence and security.

Organizers and Partners