Eastern Defense Summit Brings Thousands to Charleston for Global Security Discussions
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
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Due to the demand and increased growth, organizers announced they are adding a third day of programming for 2026, which is scheduled for Dec 8-10, 2026.
CHARLESTON, S.C.- The 2025 Eastern Defense Summit concluded last week at the Charleston Area Convention Center after delivering the most successful event in the Summit’s history, marked by record breaking attendance, a sold out exhibit
hall and nearly 20 percent growth in both exhibitors and exhibit floor space.
Thousands of attendees from government, military, academia and industry gathered over two days for high-level discussions, competitive war games, hands-on demonstrations
and expansive networking opportunities. This year’s Summit reaffirmed its position as one of the nation’s leading defense conferences, particularly as the first major government focused conference held following the longest federal government shutdown
in history.
Attendance surpassed previous records, with more than 2,000 people registered and even more participating throughout the event. Exhibitor participation increased by nearly 20 percent, filling the largest exhibit hall in Summit
history and showcasing a wide range of defense capabilities, emerging technologies and operational solutions.
Programming throughout the Summit featured distinguished speakers and subject matter experts addressing some of the most pressing
security challenges facing the United States and its partners. Panels, fireside discussions and war games focused on emerging technology, operational readiness, cross service collaboration and real world applications across the defense landscape.
One of the most dynamic discussions of the Summit examined evolving security dynamics in the Western Hemisphere, including a panel addressing Venezuela and regional instability. Panelists provided insight into geopolitical trends, regional threats,
and the importance of coordinated, actionable solutions across government and industry, drawing strong engagement from attendees.
The exhibit hall served as a focal point of activity throughout the Summit, featuring large scale displays including
boats, vehicles, drones, robotic systems, and advanced technology demonstrations. Exhibitors also created immersive experiences to engage attendees, contributing to the energy and momentum that defined the event.
“This year’s Eastern Defense
Summit exceeded every expectation,” said Paula Callahan, executive director of the Charleston Defense Contractors Association. “We saw record breaking attendance, nearly 20 percent growth in exhibitors and exhibit space, and an extraordinary level of
engagement across every aspect of the program. The quality of the conversations, the strength of the speakers, and the collaboration happening on the exhibit floor underscore why this Summit continues to grow year after year.”
The 2025 Summit
welcomed leaders and representation from five of the six military branches, further strengthening its role as a hub for cross service collaboration. Organizers also emphasized the significant economic impact the event brings to the Charleston region through
tourism, hospitality and industry engagement.
Building on the momentum of this year’s success, organizers announced that the Eastern Defense Summit will expand to three days of programming in 2026. The next Summit is scheduled for December
8-10, with plans for increased attendance, expanded exhibitor participation, additional sponsors and even more speakers and panels.
More information about the Eastern Defense Summit and future events can be found at charlestondca.org.
For media inquiries, contact Christy Monahan with Judge PR at 727.479.4290.
About The CDCA:
Founded in 2002, the Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) protects, preserves, strengthens and grows the United States’ defense industrial base in order to deliver solutions to advance our
military readiness and capabilities. The CDCA represents more than 300 member organizations who support all six branches of America’s armed forces. Additionally, the CDCA engages the defense community through meaningful collaboration to strengthen national
security and global stability. The organization hosts the annual Eastern Defense Summit, one of the largest defense industry conferences in on the east coast . To learn more about CDCA or to join, visit: https://www.charlestondca.org/join-us-overview.
For media-related inquiries, please contact our PR firm at 813-279-8335 or by emailing news@judgepr.com
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