Europe's Aerospace Momentum Takes Shape

Why Aviation, Defence and Space are gaining strategic weight – and where this becomes visible

Europe’s aerospace sector is entering a new phase of strategic relevance. Aviation, Defence and Space are increasingly recognized as critical enablers of security, technological sovereignty and economic resilience. This shift is underpinned by concrete investment decisions. According to the Council of the European Union, defence spending by EU Member States reached an estimated €381 billion in 2025, marking a double-digit increase compared with previous years.

Europe is also reinforcing its long-term commitment to Space. At the ESA Ministerial Council, member states agreed on a record budget of around €22.3 billion for the 2026–2028 period, the highest in ESA’s history. Germany contributes approximately €5.4 billion, underlining its central role in Europe’s Space ambitions. Together, these figures highlight aerospace as a key strategic industry linking Defence readiness, climate goals, digital infrastructure and industrial competitiveness.

ILA Berlin 2026: A Global Meeting Point for a Strategic Industry

This is the context in which ILA Berlin 2026 gains particular relevance. From June 10 to 14, 2026, BER Airport will once again become a global meeting point for the aerospace community. As one of the world’s leading aerospace trade fairs, ILA brings together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers and the armed forces. With more than 600 exhibitors from over 35 countries, 350 speakers on three stages, over 100 aircraft and an expected 100,000 visitors, it showcases the full breadth of the aerospace ecosystem. Strong demand confirms the platform’s relevance: around 95 percent of the exhibition space has already been allocated.

ILA Berlin at BER Airport. © Messe Berlin GmbH

An Integrated Platform for Aviation, Space and Defence

ILA Berlin goes beyond a traditional trade show. It serves as an industry and policy platform connecting start-ups with global players, suppliers with OEMs, and political decision-makers with technical experts. Innovation is visible across exhibition halls, chalets and outdoor areas, complemented by a Static and Flying Display featuring civil and military aircraft.

In Aviation, the focus is on next-generation flight: hydrogen technologies, digital manufacturing, new aircraft concepts and MRO solutions that keep fleets efficient and future-ready. The Space segment is anchored by the globally recognized Space Pavilion, organised in cooperation with BDLI, DLR and ESA. It showcases Europe’s ambitions in Space safety, sustainability, commercialisation and security. In Defence, ILA addresses today’s most pressing capabilities: air defence, unmanned systems, AI-supported operations and networked warfare. The Defence Park and Military Support Centre serve as international meeting points for armed forces and industry alike.

Inside the Space Pavilion at ILA Berlin. © Messe Berlin GmbH

A defining feature is the comprehensive content programme: across several live stages, international experts discuss technological innovation, digital transformation, geopolitics, security, emerging markets and new business models.

Where Strategy Becomes Reality

As Europe accelerates its aerospace ambitions through record investments, ILA Berlin 2026 delivers what no conference call or white paper can: direct access to the people, technologies and decisions that are shaping this industry right now. Whether you are an OEM, a supplier, a start-up or a political decision-maker, this is where the next chapter of European aerospace is being written. Be part of it.

Find out more and register at www.ila-berlin.com