Defense & Security 2025 Bangkok Thailand
Defense & Security 2025: Unmanned Systems and Drone Technologies Take Center Stage in Thailand
By GLOTRAXA
Defense & Security 2025
10–13 November 2025 | IMPACT Exhibition & Convention Center, Thailand
Defense & Security 2025, ASEAN’s leading tri-service defense and internal security exhibition, concluded successfully in Bangkok, Thailand. Held from 10 to 13 November 2025, the event brought together thousands of military professionals, government representatives, and industry experts. While the exhibition traditionally showcases technologies across land, sea, air, and internal security sectors, this year one theme stood out unmistakably: the dominance and rapid evolution of unmanned systems and drone technologies.
A Clear Shift Toward Unmanned Defense Technologies
The 2025 edition vividly demonstrated the global and regional focus on automation, autonomous platforms, and AI-enabled defense tools. Across all exhibition halls, unmanned aerial, ground, and maritime systems occupied a central role, highlighting their growing importance for modern militaries.
Aerial Drones (UAVs) Remained the Main Attraction
Visitors observed an extraordinary variety of UAV platforms, ranging from compact tactical quadcopters to advanced long-range reconnaissance drones. Notable trends included:
- FPV strike drones and loitering munitions
- AI-supported reconnaissance UAVs
- Modular drones with interchangeable payloads
- Swarm-capable unmanned platforms
- Long-endurance surveillance drones
- Heavy-lift UAVs for logistics
Enhanced resistance to jamming, improved autonomy, and integration with EW systems were recurring themes.
UGVs and Naval Unmanned Systems
Ground and maritime unmanned systems also gained significant attention:
- Autonomous UGVs for reconnaissance and logistics
- Robotic EOD and mine-clearance systems
- Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for surveillance
- Underwater drones (UUVs) for inspection and mine detection
These solutions clearly demonstrated that autonomy is no longer an experimental feature but a mainstream component of modern defense.
A Divided Battlefield: Drones vs. Anti-Drone Technologies
One of the most striking characteristics of Defense & Security 2025 was the effective division of the exhibition into two major sectors:
1. Offensive Side — Drones Themselves
Here, manufacturers showcased a wide range of unmanned offensive and reconnaissance systems, reflecting the global surge in drone-based warfare and tactical operations.
2. Defensive Side — Counter-Drone Technologies
The second major sector focused on the rapidly developing field of drone defense. Exhibitors presented:
- Advanced electronic warfare (EW) systems
- RF jamming and communication disruption tools
- Portable and vehicle-mounted anti-drone complexes
- Anti-drone radar stations and optical tracking systems
While electronic countermeasures dominated the scene, traditional ballistic solutions also received significant attention. Firearms manufacturers displayed:
- Precision rifles for counter-UAV operations
- Shotguns designed for close-range drone neutralization
- Modernized long-barrel small arms adapted for aerial targets
A notable highlight was the presence of laser-based anti-drone systems, primarily from Chinese manufacturers. Compact, efficient, and technologically mature, these solutions attracted strong interest from both military delegations and industry experts.
China’s Rising Dominance in Defense Technologies
A key conclusion from Defense & Security 2025 was the evident leadership of Chinese defense companies. Their stands were among the largest, most diverse, and most technologically advanced at the exhibition.
It is no longer accurate to say that China is “catching up” with Western defense technologies. Instead, the 2025 exhibition demonstrated a different reality:
Western companies are increasingly struggling to keep pace with the rapid advancements of Eastern manufacturers, particularly from China and Thailand.
Chinese exhibitors showcased an exceptionally broad product range—from drones and anti-drone systems to advanced communications, armored vehicles, and laser solutions. The scale, innovation, and completeness of their offerings commanded widespread respect and attention.
Static Displays and Live Demonstrations
In addition to indoor exhibits, numerous companies held dynamic demonstrations supervised by the Thai Ministry of Defence. These included:
- FPV combat drone flights
- Swarm coordination tests
- Robotic ground vehicle demonstrations
- Counter-drone system trials
Attendees had the opportunity to witness real-time performance, control precision, and the effectiveness of EW-based defense tools.
High-Level Seminars and Expert Presentations
Over 20 seminars and conferences delivered by international specialists complemented the exhibition. The most popular topics focused on:
- Autonomous warfare and unmanned–manned teaming
- Drone battlefield integration
- Electronic warfare and counter-UAV strategies
- Cybersecurity in defense environments
These sessions offered valuable insights into emerging operational doctrines and future military procurement trends.
Networking and Strategic Partnerships
Officials from more than 35 countries participated in G2G and G2B meetings, forming an important environment for contract negotiations, technology assessments, and industrial partnerships. Business matching programs connected global manufacturers with high-quality component suppliers and R&D organizations.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in Global Defense Technology Trends
Defense & Security 2025 clearly marked a technological turning point. The exhibition revealed an industry rapidly shifting toward unmanned systems, drone warfare, and counter-drone technologies. It also highlighted the growing leadership of East Asian manufacturers, particularly those from China, whose advancements, scale, and innovation set a new benchmark for the global defense sector.
For companies like GLOTRAXA, the event was an invaluable opportunity to explore groundbreaking solutions, evaluate market trends, and build strategic partnerships in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.
