General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Defence and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, will host its second Blue Magic Netherlands (BMNL) event on November 18, 2025.
BMNL 2025 follows the successful first event in 2024 and will take place at the MELT at Avular building, a world-class venue for technology interchange near Brainport Eindhoven, the center of the Dutch high-technology manufacturing industry.
The event brings together leaders in advanced technology, aerospace, business, and government in a single Dutch forum to explore emerging technologies that address the world’s most pressing defence and security challenges. GA-ASI supplies its MQ-9A Remotely Piloted Aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force.
This year’s focus areas include Intelligent Systems (AI/ML and Autonomy), Smart Materials, Sensors, Space, and Counter-UAS.
Blue Magic Netherlands fosters technology ideation and implementation within the Dutch industrial ecosystem. GA-ASI is inviting Netherlands-based technology and aerospace companies, big and small, to apply for a chance to pitch transformative next-gen solutions that could shape the course of commercial and defence technologies.
Brad Lunn, managing director for GA-ASI, stated, “The first BMNL event was a huge success for Dutch industry. We’ve built strong investment opportunities with Dutch companies — including Arceon, Emergent Swarm Solutions, and Saluqi Motors — and now we’re looking to build on that success at BMNL 2025.”
Along with partners Brainport Development Eindhoven, Lockheed Martin Ventures, Brabant Development Agency and the Netherlands Industries for Defence & Security (NIDV), GA-ASI will accept proposals to present a broad range of technologies. Participating in this event provides an ideal opportunity to connect with funding sources and collaborate with industry leaders. Companies and individuals wishing to only join the audience and network are welcome to register as well.
Companies can submit PDF pitch proposals by October 10, 2025 to present their capabilities at BMNL 2025, with selections announced November 3, 2025. Pitches will be followed by panel discussions and networking opportunities with industry leaders. This year’s focus areas include Intelligent Systems (AI/ML and Autonomy), Smart Materials, Sensors, Space, and Counter-UAS.
BMNL organizers will also host several virtual workshops covering a variety of topics relevant to defence technology start-ups. These workshops will be listed on the event website and are available for the entire Dutch innovation ecosystem.
Submit a pitch proposal or register to attend in person or virtually via the event website.
