Black Sea Defense and Aerospace (BSDA) 2026, the leading defense and security industry event in the Black Sea region, opened on Wednesday in Bucharest with official visits by Czech President Petr Pavel and Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, who arrived at the exhibition immediately after attending the B9 Summit at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace.
According to the organizers, the first day of this anniversary edition - marking 20 years since BSDA's launch - brought together more than 11,000 visitors, official delegations from over 30 countries, and representatives of major global defense and security companies. Over the next two days, the official program will continue with high-level political, military and diplomatic visits, including delegations led by Chiefs of Defence, Force Commanders and government representatives from NATO and partner states.
The 10th edition of BSDA features more than 650 exhibiting companies from 36 countries and seven national pavilions, in a regional context shaped by increased defense investment and the development of new military capabilities. Systems and technologies from the aerospace, naval and land domains are showcased both in the exhibition halls and in the outdoor area, alongside solutions in drones, anti-drone systems, cyber defense, and AI-enabled defense applications.
Among this year's highlights are the participation of companies involved in Romania's major military procurement programs, as well as the presence of Ukrainian manufacturers exhibiting technologies validated in real combat conditions. For the first time, the Steaua Bucharest Army Sports Club is present with its own pavilion, dedicated to the club's sporting achievements and history. Exhibits include the 1986 UEFA Champions League trophy and Olympic gold medals won by some of CSA Steaua's emblematic athletes.
The first two days of the event are reserved for official, military and business visitors. On Friday, the outdoor exhibition area will also open to the general public.
