The 32nd International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO), to be held in Targi Kielce, Poland, from 3 to 6 September 2024, is one of Europe’s most important defence industry events. With the Polish Ministry of National Defence having issued invitations to 38 countries, almost 600 companies from 32 countries have already confirmed their participation and will exhibit their products in the show’s impressive 30,000 m2 exhibition area.
Held under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Poland, Mr Andrzej Duda, MSPO features the Polish Armaments Group as its Strategic Partner.
The MSPO show in Targi Kielce has attracted exhibitors and visitors from all over the world for years. The event has always been the platform for exchanging experiences, presenting the latest technologies and establishing international business contacts. This trade show offers an excellent opportunity for defence companies to present their latest products and services and develop strategic partnerships.
This year, however, a record-breaking MSPO is on the horizon in light of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the associated tension it creates.
“Defence spending needs to be increased. It is clear to all of us, ie the general public, economy and the political milieus. Our government is allocating a record-breaking 4% of GDP for this purpose,” noted Andrzej Mochoń PhD, President and CEO of Kielce Trade Fairs. “The need for equipment and supplies will increase, translating into great interest in the MSPO. I believe that this interest will not decrease, even if the war in Ukraine ends, as tensions between superpowers and political blocs will continue. A decade of increased defence spending lies ahead of us.”
This year’s MSPO will gather leading producers and suppliers of military equipment, as well as experts and decision-makers who will discuss the future of defence, safety and security. The show’s agenda includes discussion panels, technology presentations and numerous business meetings designed to exchange knowledge and experiences.
Not only is MSPO Poland’s largest defence industry exhibition, but it is also one of the most important platforms that serve the purpose of global knowledge and experience exchange among defence, safety and security specialists. This year’s show also demonstrates Targi Kielce’s important role in building global business relationships and promoting innovative technological solutions.
Jubilee of the Armed Forces Exhibition
This year’s trade show features the Armed Forces Exhibition jubilee, held under the banner of ‘Poland: 25 years in NATO, safe and secure for 25 years’. This part of MSPO emphasises the importance of Poland’s membership in the North Atlantic alliance for national and international security. The central theme is an excellent opportunity to present the achievements and progress made by the Polish armed forces since Poland joined NATO. The exhibition will include a mission town, a patrol boat and a snowmobile. Every year, over 1,000 Polish soldiers take part in the exhibition arrangement.
Contracts and agreements
Last year’s MSPO witnessed several essential contracts and agreements signed that have had a significant impact on the development of the Polish defence industry. The most important transactions include contracts for the supply of modern defence systems, co-operation with international partners and contracts for modernising and refurbishing existing military equipment. The contracts list includes co-operation between MESKO and the Armament Agency for the supply of ammunition for the Polish armed forces, agreements between PCO SA and VIGO SA regarding the development and implementation of cooled infrared systems (production and marketing), and a number of agreements signed by PGZ.
This year’s show will witness numerous important contracts officially signed, including the long-awaited contract for the supply of K2 tanks, which is intended to strengthen the combat capabilities of the Polish armed forces. The contract covers both the delivery of new units and the transfer of technology, which will contribute to the development of the Polish arms industry. This strategic agreement will be one of many concluded at this year’s show, highlighting the importance of MSPO as a key platform for negotiating and finalising important transactions in the defence sector.
MSPO Open Day
Another attraction of this year’s MSPO is the Open Day on 7 September 2024. On this day all interested participants can admire the most modern military equipment used by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland. This is a unique opportunity for military enthusiasts, families and people who are curious to learn about modern defence technologies; a chance to see and learn more about the equipment used by the Polish armed forces and take a closer look.
