Defence Innovation Day brings together the boldest minds in defence, technology, and investment to explore how innovation is reshaping the future of security across the NATO alliance and beyond. From cross-border collaboration in the Baltic region to breakthrough funding models and the evolving relationship between industry primes and startups, the day dives into the key forces driving defence transformation.
Taking place on 22 September 2025 in Tallinn, the full-day programme is structured around thematic blocks, each featuring a keynote presentation and a panel discussion. Topics range from regional cooperation and funding mechanisms to operationally tested innovation and startup–industry dynamics. In between, two dedicated startup pitching sessions will showcase cutting-edge defence and dual-use technologies to investors, end-users, and international stakeholders.
Defence Innovation Day is powered by Tehnopol Startup Incubator and the NATO DIANA Estonian Accelerator, with one programme block co-curated by Sparkup Tartu Science Park. The event takes place as part of the official programme of Estonian Defence Week and the event is in English.
Please note that while the event is public, registration is required and final participation is subject to approval by the organisers.
Please be aware that photos will be taken during the event for communication purposes. By registering for the event, you grant the organisers permission to use images taken during the event in social media, publications, and other promotional materials.
Please note: attending this event does not give you entry to other events scheduled for this week
Minister of Defence of the Republic of Estonia
Chief Revenue Officer, Quantum Systems
German-based dual-use drone technology company that recently raised €160 million and is one of only a handful of European defence unicorns.
Moderator: Madis Kimmel, Journalist
Panellists:
• Ivo Peets, The future head of the Force Transformation Command
• Kadri Tammai, Head of NATO DIANA Regional Hub
• Jaanus Tamm, CEO, DefSecIntel Solutions
Empowering media, government and defence to verify information, avoid costly mistakes and to win trust.
Federated Learning enables secure and scalable AI on all devices, protecting your data.
Pioneering the post-quantum revolution in hardware security.
Dual Use Private 5G engineered for extreme environments.
Developing and marketing microtubular solid oxide fuel cells.
CEO at Ukrainian Council of Defence Industry (UCDI)
Moderator: Jaanika Merilo, Head of Digital Health & Care, Ministry of Social Affairs of Estonia
Panellists:
• Misha Rudominski, CEO, HIMERA
• Viktoriia Yaremchuk, CEO, Farsight Vision
We are developing an autonomous robot that can control endoscopic camera on its own while performing a minimally invasive procedure.
AI-based mission control center for coordinated drones
Camouflage and defensive equipment against thermal cameras used on the battlefield, which pose an increasing threat on the front lines.
Building an autonomous and modular counter-FPV drone systems that detects, tracks, and ultimately shoots down FPV drones attacking the protected troops and assets.
Scene reconstruction and geospatial insights from drone data to enhance situational awareness and mission decisions for operational and tactical teams.
Moderator: Pirko Konsa, Member of the Management Board of Tartu Science Park
Panellists:
• Mika Rantakokko, Connectivity Lead at VTT
• Alma Jacobson, Innovation Lead at Vinnova
In this session, our investors will take the hot seat – the audience is invited to ask direct questions, and the panel will respond on the spot. Fast, open, and insightful.
Separate registration needed. Further information will follow.
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Contacts
Join us at Estonian Defence Week (EDW)
The Creative Hub (Kultuurikatel)
Kursi tn 3, Tallin