Global defense spending is surging to unprecedented levels, with 2024 marking a staggering USD 2.48 trillion in military expenditures and even more ambitious commitments on the horizon. The Janes 2025 Defense Budget Annual Report projects a 3.6% rise or an additional USD 88.4 billion in 2025, fueled primarily by expanded military budgets in Europe, Russia, Northeast Asia, and the Middle East.
At the historic June 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague, the Netherlands, NATO Heads of State, Government, and Allied leaders adopted a summit declaration committing to invest 5% of GDP in defence. Of this, 3.5% will be directed toward core defence requirements and 1.5% toward defence- and security-related investments such as infrastructure and industry. This marks a major uplift from the previous benchmark of 2% of GDP and signals the alliance’s heightened urgency to adapt to a rapidly shifting global security landscape.
Amid ongoing regional tensions, the Thai government is pressing ahead with key military procurements to bolster national defense and uphold strategic interests. Most recently, the Royal Thai Air Force secured Cabinet approval for the phased acquisition of 12 Gripen-E/F fighter jets over the next decade, at an estimated cost of THB60 billion. This investment is designed to strengthen air superiority amid growing regional power competition and ensure Thailand maintains credible deterrence capabilities.
In a parallel move, the Royal Thai Navy received Cabinet approval for the purchase of two new frigates at a cost of THB35 billion. The acquisitions are expected to significantly enhance Thailand’s maritime security and expand its capacity to safeguard vital sea lanes and maritime resources, reinforcing the country’s strategic role in Southeast Asia.
With unprecedented urgency in global defense procurement, Defense & Security 2025 is set to play a pivotal role as an intelligence and procurement platform for governments and industry. Held biennially for 22 years, the event has established itself as ASEAN’s most influential tri-service defense and internal security exhibition, conference, and networking platform.
Taking place from 10 to 13 November 2025 at IMPACT Exhibition & Convention Center in Bangkok, the show is set to be the largest edition to date. It will host 580 leading exhibiting companies across defense sectors and 28 national pavilions showcasing global innovation. Over 350 high-ranking officials from 35 countries are expected to attend, alongside more than 26,000 professional visitors from 65 nations.
Defense & Security 2025 will showcase a wide range of technologies, from weapons systems, missiles, tanks, UAVs, and transport vehicles to naval vessels, satellites, and telecom equipment. Electronic defense systems, fire control technology, launchers, cybersecurity solutions, and disaster response technologies will also feature prominently.
For internal security, the exhibition will present cutting-edge surveillance technologies, including CCTV and intruder detection systems, alongside access control solutions, personal handguns, body armor, riot gear, protective equipment, night-vision technology, and advanced communication jamming devices.
Beyond the exhibition, the event will deliver an extensive programme of knowledge-sharing and live demonstrations. The International Seminar will address urgent issues such as how nations should respond to the rise of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS) and what governance frameworks are needed for space security. Tech Talks and Live Demonstrations will further provide in-depth explorations of modern naval warfare, short range air defense (ShoRad), and the security aspects of space technology.
As defense technologies evolve at breakneck speed, nations face mounting pressure to act decisively—whether by strengthening deterrence, bolstering defensive strategies, or advancing autonomous systems and AI-driven surveillance. In this decisive era of heightened global defense, Defense & Security 2025 will be the platform where governments, industry leaders, and innovators converge to shape the future of security.
For more information about the event, visit us at www.asiandefense.com
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