SPIE Defense + Security 2027
Event Date
April 18–22, 2027
Location
Orlando, FL
About This Show
AI-drafted summarySPIE Defense + Security (formerly SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing) is an international symposium and exhibition dedicated to sensing, imaging, and photonics technologies for the defense and security communities. Organized by SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, the event pairs an extensive technical conference program with a supplier exhibition. Attendees explore the latest optical components, photonic sensors, infrared technologies, laser systems, imaging, robotics, fiber optics, cameras, radar, LiDAR, and AI-assisted sensing.
The symposium draws researchers, scientists, engineers, program managers, government representatives, and buyers from public, security, and government sectors worldwide. It is widely regarded as one of the leading venues for learning about sensing technologies being rapidly acquired and deployed in defense and security applications.
Attendees can expect many technical presentations, expert-led training courses, and a vibrant exhibition featuring top suppliers showcasing cutting-edge innovations — from infrared and laser systems to autonomous platforms. It is a leading opportunity to hear emerging research, discover new products, make business connections, and network with world-renowned experts in optics and photonics.
Show Highlights
- A large technical conference program spanning sensors, infrared technology, laser systems, spectral imaging, radar, LiDAR, AI/machine learning, and autonomous systems.
- Expert-led short courses and training for professional development.
- A supplier exhibition featuring thermal cameras, optical filters, detector arrays, hyperspectral imaging cameras, and other defense technologies.
- Plenary and track presentations from leaders across national laboratories, defense primes, universities, and technology companies.
- Networking events held on the exhibition floor.
- Application focus areas including surveillance, guidance and targeting, navigation, situational awareness, CBRNE and threat detection, and advanced autonomous systems.
Attendance
SPIE does not publish a single official attendance figure for the in-person event on its main pages. As a historical reference point, the 2020 SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing Digital Forum had more than 3,600 people sign up to participate. Third-party trade-show directories describe the exhibition as one of the industry's leading shows, but exact verified attendee and demographic numbers were not confirmed on official sources.
Booth Pricing
SPIE has not published exact per-booth dollar figures for 2027 on its public pages. Exhibitors can reserve standard 10 x 10 or larger booth spaces, as well as turnkey kiosks and mini booth displays that can be purchased on their own or added to a larger booth. Turnkey displays include a backwall with fabric graphics, a lockable cabinet, stool, carpeting, wastebasket, 5-amp electricity, and installation and dismantle. Pricing incentives include an early-bird rate (a 3% discount off 2027 standard rates, extended to 2026 exhibitors) and an SPIE Corporate Member rate reflecting a 15% discount. Contact spiesales@spie.org for current rates.
Registration
Registration is handled online through the official SPIE website (spie.org). Exhibition registration is free and intended only for qualified optics and photonics professionals; networking events held on the exhibition floor are subject to the same eligibility requirements. Full technical conference and course registration is separate and paid, with member and early-bird pricing typically available. Exhibitors reserve space directly with SPIE to secure the best pricing and location choice. Confirm exact fees and deadlines on the official event pages before registering.
History
The event is produced by SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. It was long known as SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing (SPIE DCS) and has more recently been branded SPIE Defense + Security. The symposium has been held annually, typically in April, and in recent years has been hosted at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in the greater Orlando area. It has grown into one of the leading gatherings for defense, security, and sensing technologies, combining dozens of technical conferences and courses with a large supplier exhibition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is SPIE Defense + Security 2027 taking place?
SPIE Defense + Security 2027 is scheduled for April 18–22, 2027, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, in the greater Orlando, Florida area. The supplier exhibition floor is open April 20–22, 2027.
Who should attend SPIE Defense + Security?
The event is aimed at researchers, scientists, engineers, program managers, government representatives, and buyers working in defense, security, and sensing technologies. It is a leading venue for those interested in optics, photonics, infrared, lasers, radar, LiDAR, imaging, and AI-assisted sensing.
How do I register, and is there a cost?
Registration is handled online at spie.org. Exhibition registration is free but limited to qualified optics and photonics professionals, while full technical conference and course registration is separate and paid.
What airport should I fly into?
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the nearest major airport, about 14.5 miles from the venue and roughly a 17–30 minute drive. The venue is also near Brightline's Orlando high-speed rail station, and airport shuttle, taxi, and rideshare options are available.
How can my company exhibit at the show?
Companies reserve exhibit space directly with SPIE, choosing 10 x 10 or larger booths or turnkey kiosks and mini booths. Early-bird pricing offers a 3% discount off 2027 standard rates, and SPIE Corporate Members receive a 15% discount; contact spiesales@spie.org for details.
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