The Nordic Space & Defence Summit (NSDS) 2026 has officially concluded, marking a massive milestone for the regional deep tech, space, and defence sectors. Originally planned for 200 participants, the event saw an overwhelming response, ultimately welcoming 277 guests from 23 different countries to a completely sold-out venue.
Over the course of two days, the halls were filled with a unique energy, characterized by sharp discussions, honest industry insights, and high-stakes networking. The summit featured 45 speakers sharing insights across space and defence, and proved that the “New Nordic” ecosystem is not just a concept, but a rapidly accelerating reality where real business conversations lead to tangible progress.
What is the “New Nordic” and Why Does It Matter?
The term “New Nordic” represents a strategic shift in how the Nordic and Baltic regions—Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—collaborate as a single, integrated powerhouse. It moves beyond traditional geography to form a unified economic and technological bloc.
In the context of space and defence, this ecosystem is critical because it pools together world-class expertise in software, hardware, and specialized manufacturing that no single nation could sustain alone. The importance of this alliance lies in its collective technological sovereignty. By integrating Baltic agility with Nordic industrial scale and defence heritage, the region creates a resilient supply chain that ensures innovation is built, tested, and deployed locally.
Bridging Space and Defence
The synergy between orbit and earthbound security has never been more vital. At NSDS26, the dialogue centered on how dual-use technologies—once distinct silos—are now merging to form a unified resilient infrastructure. The summit highlighted that modern sovereignty depends on this seamless integration. By fostering a “New Nordic” ecosystem where satellite data informs tactical defence and defence-grade security protects space assets, we are building a strategic corridor that ensures Europe remains competitive and technologically independent.
For full agenda and speaker list of Nordic Space and Defence 2026, see the event website here.
If you’d like to see more photos from the event, you can view the open photo folder, here.
Celebrating Innovation: The 2026 Award Winners
A highlight of the summit was the recognition of two standout companies that embody the ambition and technical excellence of the region.
The THINGS New Nordic Space Tech Company 2026: Astrolight
This recognition celebrates a standout example of how Baltic deep tech can scale globally. Founded by Laurynas Mačiulis (co-founder of NanoAvionics), Dalius Petrulionis, Julijanas Zeludevicius, and Martynas Milaševičius, Astrolight is building the future of optical communications. Their journey is a masterclass in adaptation; while starting with a space focus, they found significant traction in maritime connectivity. With an expanding footprint in Denmark and recent investment from EIFO, the team is now preparing for a major milestone: testing their optical communications terminal in space later this year.
The THINGS New Nordic Defence Tech Company 2026: Nordic Air Defence
Founded in 2023, Nordic Air Defence addresses one of the most urgent missions in European security: countering expendable aerial threats. Their Kreuger 100 interceptor platform provides a cost-effective, scalable response to adversarial drones where traditional systems often fall short. With the recent appointment of former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tobias Billström as Director of Strategy and Government Affairs, the company is strategically positioned to become a true European defence champion, built in Sweden for the continent.
A Powerhouse of Partners
The success of NSDS26 was made possible through a strategic partnership with Kista Science City, alongside the CASSINI space matchmaking sessions, powered by EUSPA. We are also deeply grateful to our core partners:
Sparkup Tartu Science Park, EU Space Academy, ICEYE, DeepTech Alliance Next-Gen Compute, KSAT – Kongsberg Satellite Services, Space Sweden, Defence Tech Denmark, Space Norway, constellr, Thales Alenia Space, DEPO Ventures / EBAN, Balnord, NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), BSV Ventures, PandionAI, Expansion Ventures, Zero Gravity, TEOM, Unibap Space Solutions, MTEK Industry AB, PSV Hafnium, Detecon, Terma Group, HENSOLDT, Rheinmetall, European Space Agency (ESA), HTGF | High-Tech Gründerfonds, Spaceport Sweden AB, and OHB Sweden AB.
Community Partners: We would also like to thank our community partners who helped bridge the gap between innovation and industry: Sparkup Tartu Science Park, Defence Tech Denmark, Connect Sverige, Arctic Business, Space Sweden, and Kista Science City.
Tech Partners: The summit featured an incredible array of technology providers driving the industry forward: TERASi, Unibap Space Solutions, Vilnius University, I-Conic, Prospect, Sigma Connectivity, AAC Clyde Space, Space Students Sweden, TEOM, Graphmatech, Satellite VU, Arctic Space, SharpNav, Nordic Air Defence, Astrolight, KrattWorks, Six Robotics, Scaleout Systems, Vake, Aavuus, Clavister, Remos Space, Rift Dynamics, Polar Orbital, Tycho Space, Kuva Space, Monopulse, MTEK, Aethena Deepmind, Triton Depth, Scurid, Godwit, Cata Strato, Max Joule, Mindchip, Falconers, Spiral Hydrogen, C2GRID, Asvel, GaltTec, and Crystalspace.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The message from NSDS26 is clear: the demand for cross-sector collaboration between space and defence is growing faster than ever. When you bring together the right people across these high-stakes industries, things move.
Because of the overwhelming interest and the momentum generated this year, we aren’t waiting to start the next chapter.
Save the Date: The Nordic Space & Defence Summit 2027 will take place on April 7-8.
Early Bird Tickets are now open. Secure your spot early to ensure you are part of the conversation that defines the future of Nordic security and space exploration.
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