489 Exhibitors Confirmed for SPIE DEFENSE + COMMERCIAL SENSING 2026

SPIE DEFENSE + COMMERCIAL SENSING 2026 will feature 489 exhibitors when it opens April 26-30 at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, representing the industry's largest gathering of defense, security, and sensing technology suppliers.

The five-day exhibition and conference covers six key sectors: defense armament, measurement and control systems, optoelectronics, micro and nanotechnologies, security risk management, and environmental protection. The event positions itself as the leading platform for 500 top defense contractors, suppliers, and integrators.

Major Defense Contractors Lead Participation

Leading defense contractors anchor the exhibitor roster. L3Harris will showcase education, safety, and vehicle systems, while BAE Systems Sensor Solutions presents air countermeasures, electronic warfare detection systems, and infrared components. Leonardo brings aerospace simulation training products and flight simulation services to the show floor.

Industrial technology companies round out the participation. 3M exhibits adhesives, gaskets, and labeling solutions, while Eaton demonstrates connectors, enclosures, and automated transmission systems. EPSON Robots focuses on automation and robotic accessories for defense applications.

Sensing Technology Takes Center Stage

Advanced sensing technologies form a major exhibition category. Synopsys Taiwan presents AR/VR systems, automotive displays, and optical design software. Buhler Leybold Optics showcases filtration equipment and laboratory supplies, while tesa SE from Germany exhibits optical films and coatings.

The measurement and control sector features specialized suppliers including Adhesives Research with life sciences applications. These companies represent the convergence of defense requirements with commercial sensing applications.

Conference Program Addresses Dual-Use Technologies

The conference program runs parallel to the exhibition, focusing on dual-use applications where defense technologies crossover to commercial markets. Sessions cover optoelectronics advancement, nanotechnology applications in sensing, and environmental protection systems used in both military and civilian contexts.

The micro and nanotechnologies track examines miniaturization trends affecting both defense equipment and commercial sensors. Security risk management sessions address cybersecurity concerns for connected sensing devices across sectors.

Orlando Venue Supports Large-Scale Defense Exhibition

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center provides the infrastructure for the 489-company exhibition. The venue's location near Orlando International Airport facilitates international attendance, while the integrated resort setting supports extended business meetings between defense contractors and suppliers.

The April timing positions the event ahead of the summer defense contracting cycle, allowing suppliers to present new technologies before budget decisions. The five-day format accommodates both exhibition business and technical conference attendance.