15. December 2025
Global Tech Giants Unite At Drone Show 2026 As Denmark Prepares To Host Worlds Largest Drone Gathering

The International Drone Show 2026: A Global Gathering Point for Unmanned and Autonomous Technologies
In just a few months, Odense, Denmark will become the epicenter of the global drone industry when the International Drone Show (IDS) 2026 takes place at HCA Airport. The event promises to be an exciting platform for companies, specialists, and decision-makers from around the world to converge and showcase the latest advancements in unmanned and autonomous technologies.
The 2025 edition of IDS was a resounding success, attracting over 1,000 participants, 100 exhibitors, and visitors from more than 35 countries. The event has established itself as one of Europe’s largest dedicated industry events for the drone sector, and interest is expected to grow even further in 2026.
Four Key Themes Shape the 2026 Program
The International Drone Show 2026 will delve into four key themes that are shaping the future of the drone industry. These themes include:
- Defence and Security: Unmanned Systems in Modern Defence and Emergency Response
The use of drones in modern defence and emergency response is becoming increasingly important. This theme will explore the latest developments in unmanned systems, including autonomous vehicles, sensors, and communication systems. Presentations and debates from experts in the field, as well as live demo flights showcasing the capabilities of these systems, will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of this critical area.
- Industry Use Cases and New Technologies: The Most Promising Solutions Across Energy, Infrastructure, Environment, and Logistics
The drone industry has numerous applications across various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, environment, and logistics. This theme will highlight the most promising solutions for these industries, including innovative use cases, new technologies, and cutting-edge applications.
- Unmanned on Land and at Sea: From Autonomous Ground Vehicles to Maritime Drones
The development of autonomous ground vehicles and maritime drones is a rapidly evolving field. This theme will explore the latest advancements in unmanned systems for land and sea, including the potential applications and benefits of these technologies.
- Integrated Airspace: The Future of Air Traffic, Where Drones and Manned Aviation Operate Safely Side by Side
As the drone industry continues to grow, there is an increasing need for safe and efficient integration with manned aviation. This theme will examine the future of air traffic management, including the role of drones in reducing congestion, improving safety, and enhancing overall efficiency.
Additional Program Highlights
IDS 2026 will feature a range of other activities, including:
- Presentations and Panel Debates with Experts from Denmark and Abroad: Attendees can expect engaging presentations and debates on various topics related to the drone industry.
- Live Demo Flights in the Airport’s Extensive Test Area: The HCA Airport test area offers a unique opportunity for attendees to experience drones in realistic environments, providing a hands-on understanding of the latest technologies.
- International Exhibition Featuring New Technologies and Solutions: The IDS exhibition will showcase the latest innovations and applications from leading suppliers and manufacturers.
- Opportunities for Networking and Matchmaking Across the Industry: Attendees will have the chance to connect with industry professionals, partners, and potential collaborators.
A Strong Focus on Live Demonstrations
Live demonstrations are a key element of IDS 2026. The organizers recognize the importance of seeing technologies in action, which makes a real difference when assessing systems and their potential applications. The live demo flights at HCA Airport will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to experience drones in realistic environments, allowing them to assess capabilities, identify potential challenges, and discuss solutions.
Organizers’ Ambitions for IDS 2026
The organizers of IDS 2026 are ambitious, aiming to build on the success of previous editions. Søren Elmer Kristensen, CEO of Odense Robotics, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “Drone technology is advancing rapidly, with new solutions and applications emerging all the time. This raises our ambitions for IDS 2026, where we look forward to once again bringing together key players from across the ecosystem to showcase the latest technologies, share knowledge, and build strong cross-industry partnerships.”
Michael Larsen, Head of UAS Denmark Test Center, echoed similar sentiments: “We are excited to once again welcome Danish and international visitors to HCA Airport. IDS gives participants the chance to experience technologies in realistic environments, which makes a real difference when seeing systems in action. That is why live demonstrations will once again be a central part of the 2026 program.”
The International Drone Show 2026 promises to be an exciting event that will showcase the latest advancements in unmanned and autonomous technologies. With its expanded program, increased international participation, and focus on live demonstrations, IDS 2026 will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, assess cutting-edge technologies, and explore new applications across various sectors.
Relevant Links
- Netherlands Joins US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft Programme
- UAVOS Demonstrates New Swarm-Control with UAS Borey Formation
- Unifly, CorePeelers Partner to Accelerate UTM and Drone Ecosystem in India
- Seven Students Expose Russia’s Drone Motherships After Intel Agencies Failed
- Denmark’s Drone Airport Chaos Just Turbocharged Europe’s Counter-UAS Race