DSEI 2025: A gateway to global defence markets for Hi-tech SMEs

Unlocking international opportunities through strategic networking and expert partnership support

From 9-12 September 2025, ExCeL London will host the world’s most significant defence and security exhibition, DSEI 2025. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the hi-tech sector, this biennial event represents the ideal opportunity to break into one of the most lucrative and stable markets globally. With the theme “Preparing the Future Force,” DSEI 2025 will focus on examining the role of human factors in the evolving defence sector, making it particularly relevant for technology companies offering innovative solutions.

Why DSEI 2025 matters for Hi-tech SMEs

DSEI brings together over 1,500 defence and security suppliers, with more than 250 exhibiting for the first time, alongside 3,250 delegations and guests from 92 countries. For SMEs, this concentration of decision-makers, procurement teams, and industry leaders in one location is invaluable. The event’s unique ability to bring the right people together means that months of business development can be achieved in days or even hours.

The exhibition spans many sectors, including aerospace, land, naval, security, cyber, and space capabilities. The Future Tech Hub has tripled in size since 2021 and is specifically designed to support exhibitors looking to break into or strengthen relationships within the defence industry. This rapidly growing section provides the perfect entry point for technology companies seeking to establish their presence in the defence sector.

Networking opportunities to transform businesses

The value of DSEI doesn’t just lie in its scale, but in the quality of the connections it facilitates. The event attracts an incomparable number of international air force delegations, government officials, OEMs, system manufacturers, integrators, and prime contractors. For SMEs, access to these stakeholders can be transformative, opening doors to supply chain opportunities which might otherwise take years to develop.

The International Pavilions merit particular attention. Built to provide an exclusive experience for SMEs, these pavilions drive return on investment through hosting international delegations, enhancement of bilateral trade, and providing opportunities to engage with the global defence and security sectors. With international pavilions representing nations including Germany, the USA, Taiwan, India and Türkiye, companies can explore regional partnerships and understand their specific market requirements.

Sector-specific zones for targeted networking

DSEI’s organisation into specialised zones allows SMEs to focus their networking efforts strategically. The Manufacturing Hub supports companies looking to break into the defence sector, while the Medical Hub supports military medicine innovations. The Space Hub recognises the increasing importance of space technologies in modern defence applications.

Each zone attracts specific audiences, enabling more targeted and productive conversations. Whether your technology addresses cybersecurity, communications, materials science, or advanced manufacturing, there’s a dedicated space where potential partners and customers actively seek innovative solutions.

The challenge of international market entry

Despite the opportunities, many hi-tech SMEs face significant barriers when attempting to enter global defence markets. The investment required to establish an international presence, understand regulatory frameworks, and build meaningful partnerships can be prohibitive. Cultural nuances, procurement processes, and technical standards vary dramatically between markets, creating complex challenges for resource-constrained companies.

This is where strategic partnerships become crucial. Rather than attempting to tackle international expansion alone, many successful SMEs leverage the expertise and established networks of specialist business development partners.

How Terra Global Solutions Bridges the Gap

Terra Global Solutions has built its reputation specifically addressing these challenges for technology-oriented companies. Founded by sales engineers who experienced first-hand the challenges SMEs face accessing wider international markets, the company provides strategic business development, channel acquisition and management, as well as sales and marketing capabilities.

Our approach is particularly relevant for defence and aerospace markets. Terra Global Solutions specialises in complex technology products, servicing the aerospace, defence, and critical infrastructure markets. With a global network of partners, clients, and contacts and a physical presence in APAC, North America and EMEA, we offer the local knowledge and cultural understanding essential for successful market entry.

Comprehensive Support for Market Entry

Terra Global Solutions doesn’t simply provide consultancy advice; we act as an extension of our clients’ teams. Our services include thorough market analysis with market readiness assessments, which evaluate technology adoption levels, digital maturity, and customer demand in target markets, plus regulatory and compliance insights which identify regional technical standards and the certifications necessary for market entry.

For companies attending DSEI 2025, this support can be invaluable. Understanding which delegations to prioritise, how to position technology solutions for different markets, and what partnerships to pursue requires long-standing market knowledge. Terra Global Solutions’ team of specialist sales engineers brings this expertise, having worked extensively with technologies including positioning systems, weather radar solutions, and other complex electronic technologies common in defence applications.

Building Sustainable Channel Networks

Success at DSEI extends far beyond the four days of the exhibition. The real value comes from converting initial conversations into sustainable business relationships. Terra Global Solutions focuses on creating, managing, and optimising channel networks using a systematic approach to relationship building, which ensures that connections made at DSEI translate into long-term revenue streams. Rather than managing multiple international relationships independently, SMEs can use Terra Global Solutions’ established processes and proven methodologies.

Talk to us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation of your strategy for growth from the connections made at DSEI and discover how we can help you build a more effective global presence. Book a conversation, and follow us on LinkedIn for the latest news from Terra Global Solutions