Ranked among the world’s leading defense exhibitions, the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) is preparing to open its doors for the 17th time in 2025. One of Turkey’s most prestigious defense events, IDEF 2025 will take place between July 22–27, 2025, at the Istanbul Expo Center.
Hosted by the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Turkey, the fair is organized by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation, with the support of the Presidency of Defense Industries. The event’s execution is managed by KFA Fairs Inc.
Event Schedule and Venue
- Date: July 22–27, 2025
- Location: Istanbul Expo Center, Halls 1–11
Now held at a more central venue in Istanbul, the fair offers improved accessibility for both participants and visitors.
Exhibition Content and Focus Areas
IDEF 2025 will showcase an extensive range of products and technologies in the field of defense. Exhibits will span across land, naval, air, and space systems, including:
- Unmanned systems technologies (UAVs, UCAVs, UGVs),
- Weapon and missile systems,
- Electronic warfare and radar solutions,
- Military simulation and training systems,
- AI-supported defense software,
- Armored vehicles and logistics platforms.
Held biennially, IDEF is taking on a broader and more accessible format by relocating to the Istanbul Expo Center this year.
Participant Profile and Expectations
IDEF 2025 is expected to draw strong international interest from companies, public institutions, and military delegations operating in the defense industry.
At the previous event in 2023, 820 companies participated, while more than 65,000 professionals from 116 countries visited the fair.
The 2025 edition aims to surpass these figures with record-breaking attendance.
Participant lists and official delegations are updated regularly on the event’s official website.
Who Can Attend?
IDEF 2025 will be open to professionals working in the defense and security sectors. Entry requires an official invitation, institutional accreditation, or pre-registration. Eligible attendees include:
- Representatives of defense and technology companies,
- Military and public sector officials,
- Academics and students from relevant university departments (under certain conditions),
- Domestic and international suppliers,
- Media professionals and defense industry stakeholders.
Visitors can complete the registration process through the fair’s official website to gain entry rights.
Why IDEF Matters?
1. A Global Showcase
IDEF stands out as one of the rare international platforms where cutting-edge defense technologies are exhibited and procurement decisions are made by official delegations.
2. Innovative Collaborations
The fair enables new commercial ties and technology transfers between domestic and foreign companies, paving the way for next-generation defense solutions.
3. Turkey’s Defense Vision
IDEF once again underscores Turkey’s position as not just a regional, but a global player in the defense industry. The country’s role as both a producer and a supplier is reinforced through the exhibition of local technologies.
Statement from IDEF Officials
In a statement from the IDEF organizing committee, it was emphasized:
“Building upon the significant achievements of past editions, we aim to deliver a more innovative, inclusive, and impactful fair in 2025.”
IDEF 2025 continues to serve as a strategic platform that brings together defense industry professionals from across the globe. It is a must-attend event for institutions and individuals investing in technology, partnerships, and security.
