
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Discover cutting-edge solutions from 50 leading global suppliers
From 18-20 February 2025, XPONENTIAL Europe will open its doors for the first time in Düsseldorf, highlighting uncrewed systems, robotics, and the future of autonomy.
The event will be complemented by a varied conference program, bringing together international experts, innovators, and regulatory authorities from various sectors.
At the debut event, attendees can experience the European Drone Forum, Standards Forum, and DRONERESPONDERS Forum, all from one location. These will run alongside live demonstrations, daily keynotes, and the XPO+ Launcher.
XPONENTIAL Europe Conference
Courtesy of AUVSI (Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International), XPONENTIAL Europe will focus on the latest developments in the field of uncrewed systems in all their dimensions.
The Conference will be another key event of XPONENTIAL Europe, addressing a wide spectrum of target groups – from technical experts and engineers to regulatory authorities, end users, and start-ups.
The conference program covers a wide array of topics. International speakers will present trendsetting content that helps business, research institutes, and regulators navigate a fast-changing technological and regulatory environment.
The Conference committee comprises leading experts from various industries, including:
- Michael Bösinger, Head of Technology Innovation Development & Projects, Vodafone.
- Koen De Vos, Secretary General, GUTM.
- Rob Murray, Chief Innovation Officer, Saab.
Their expertise ensures the Conference not only reflects the current state of the art but also points the way forward for the future of the industry.
The XPONENTIAL Europe Conference provides a setting for multi-disciplinary exchange, shares hands-on insights into innovative technologies, regulatory issues and market potentials, and provides guidance for the future of the industry.
Daily Keynotes
Each day at 9.00 am – an hour before the trade fair starts – the Daily Keynotes will bring visitors and exhibitors together. High-calibre speakers from industry, research and politics will provide important input here for the following conference sessions. The keynotes create a joint point of departure for the day, stimulate discussion and promote networking across industry borders.
XPONENTIAL Europe Sessions | About |
Air, Land, Maritime & Airspace | Cross-industry perspectives for unmanned systems. |
Technical Research & Platform Development | Algorithm development, sensor integration, AI and machine learning. |
Components, Materials & Drives | Advances made in sensors, energy storage and sustainability. |
National Security & Disaster Relief | A focus on technologies for public safety and defense. |
Guidelines & Regulations | Spotlighting current developments and frameworks. |
Supporting Infrastructure & Operation | Physical and digital foundations for unmanned systems. |
End-User Implementation | Use cases, market entry, and ROI. |
XPO+ Launcher
The XPO+ Launcher is a start-up area which offers pioneers in unmanned technologies an exclusive platform to showcase their innovations and unmanned mobility.
Start-ups and parties interested in venture capital will find a start-up competition here as well as investor-related content geared towards generating new partnerships and investment.
Other target groups that can benefit XPO+ Launcher include cyber security specialists, data management experts, HR developers, and others interested in STEM, AI platforms, and the use of collected data.
Innovation Theater
At Stand B46 / Hall 1, visitors can see the latest technologies from a range of companies and organizations, all presented in live operation. Real uses cases and practical demos at the XPONENTIAL Europe Innovation Theater will showcase the future of unmanned systems.
Live Demonstrations
Exhibitors at XPONENTIAL Europe will conduct live demonstrations for visitors alongside the extensive supporting program. Attendees can witness cutting-edge developments firsthand, including unmanned mobility integration into public transit for improved safety, an advanced tele-operated shuttle, and engaging drone demonstrations.

European Drone Forum
Commencing on 17 February 2025, one day ahead of the trade fair, is the 2-day European Drone Forum (EDF) at Congress Center Süd of Messe Düsseldorf.
The EDF is organized by UAV DACH e.V., a European Association for Unmanned Aviation and conceptual sponsor of XPONENTIAL Europe.
Under the initiative, ‘Shaping the future: Clearing obstacles to commercial UAS operations in Europe,’ the event will bring industry professionals, regulatory authorities, and researchers together with political decision-makers to jointly chart the course for a sustainably successful future of uncrewed aviation.
The European Drone Forum will address:
- Technical and conceptual solutions for the safe integration of drones into the European air space.
- Enabling framework conditions for ecologically and economically sustainable drone operation.
- Consistent interpretation and application of regulatory standards for uncrewed systems in Europe.
- Optimal infrastructure for drones and “air taxis” in the air and on the ground.
EDF 2025 brings together experts from all segments of uncrewed aviation. The event will provide valuable insights into current and future applications for drones, ranging from rescue services and logistics solutions to securing critical infrastructure.
Forming a key event of XPONENTIAL Europe, the European Drone Forum promotes networking and multi-disciplinary exchange within the drone economy and promotes the relevance of the Düsseldorf region within the drone economy.

Standards Forum
The Standards Forum is designed to encourage collaboration between the U.S., the EU and its member states, and global standards development organizations to ensure that standards continue to be a facilitator of new technological developments.
The event aims to facilitate mutual standard development for uncrewed aerial vehicles with a focus on drones. Key topics include assessment of existing standards, exchange among the stakeholders, and promotion of standards collaboration across the globe.
DRONERESPONDERS Forum
The DRONERESPONDERS European Public Safety and Emergency Forum, 18-19 February at XPONENTIAL Europe 2025, serves as a central hub for rescue services, safety authorities, and political decision-makers.
Topics to be covered include:
- Public Safety & Police Operations
- Fire Brigade Deployments
- Disaster Management
- Search & Rescue Missions
- Humanitarian Aid
Centerstage is drone use for good causes, such as in disaster relief, search and rescue missions, and the protection of critical infrastructure.