HANNOVER MESSE is taking place from 20th to 24th April 2026.
HANNOVER MESSE is set to return in April 2026 with a refreshed thematic structure, improved visitor guidance, and new networking formats, placing automation and digitalisation at the heart of the event. Exhibitors from across the globe will present innovations and solutions for the manufacturing sector. A notable addition is the Defence Production Area, a forward-looking exhibition space aimed at strengthening the European security and defence industry.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognised as a key technology for Germany and Europe’s competitiveness. Its application in manufacturing is transforming company processes and business models, enabling more competitive, efficient, and intelligent production. At HANNOVER MESSE 2026, AI will feature prominently across the halls and at many exhibitor stands. Leading tech firms including AWS, Microsoft, SAP, Schneider Electric and Siemens, as well as technologically advanced SMEs such as Beckhoff Automation, Emerson/Aventics, Festo, Hiwin, IBG, ifm electronic, Harting, Lapp, Pepperl+Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, Pilz, Rittal, Schaeffler, SEW-EURODRIVE and Wittenstein, will showcase their latest developments and practical solutions.
“Automation and digitalisation are moving closer together both physically and in terms of content. The trade fair is thus following a clear trend: there is increasing software and hardware convergence in the industry – from AI-driven robots to data-based manufacturing optimisation and digitised supply chains,” has stated Hubertus von Monschaw, Global Director Trade Fair and Product Management HANNOVER MESSE at Deutsche Messe AG.
Automation encompasses sensor technology, industrial communication, embedded solutions, electric drive technology, and motion control, forming the backbone of modern Industry 4.0 solutions. A new focus will be production technologies for the defence sector.
With reassessments of defence capabilities driving increased investment, the security and defence industry demands scalable, flexible, and reliable production. The Defence Production Area provides a dedicated platform for suppliers and technology providers to present innovative solutions for defence, security, and resilience. In partnership with DSEI Germany, HANNOVER MESSE will, for the first time, showcase how modern production technologies can meet the rigorous demands of security-related manufacturing.
Robotics will remain a key highlight, with AI-based perception systems, autonomous mobile manipulators, and humanoid robots on display. Unlike traditional industrial robots, these systems emphasise adaptability, capable of using existing tools, workstations, and infrastructures to automate processes or adjust production methods without rebuilding the entire environment. In traditional sectors such as automotive and electronics, specialised industrial robots will continue to dominate in terms of accuracy, speed, payload, and reliability. Advances in digital twins, simulation, and virtual commissioning are also set to enhance robotic programming and teaching without interrupting production.
Modern industrial software will once again be showcased as the backbone of efficient, networked production, integrating machines, people, and processes into intelligent systems spanning product development, production, and maintenance. From production planning and plant control to data analysis and digital twins, industrial software is essential for optimising operations, improving resource efficiency, and strengthening competitiveness. Combined with AI, edge computing, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), software opens new avenues for efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. Exhibitors include SAP, PSI, Inform, soffico, cybus, Aegis, and Microsoft.
HANNOVER MESSE 2026 will also place greater emphasis on IT and OT security. As industry becomes increasingly digitalised and networked, cybersecurity is vital for maintaining competitiveness and innovation. Leading providers will present solutions for secure cloud computing, OT security, zero-trust architectures, and AI-driven threat analysis, giving visitors practical insights into current trends and challenges.
Connectivity remains a cornerstone of digital and sustainable industrial transformation. The ‘5G & Industrial Wireless Arena’ will offer Europe’s largest platform for wireless communication in industry, highlighting technologies such as 5G, 6G, and NBIoT. Positioned alongside robotics, IT/OT security, and defence production technologies, this arena will illustrate the future of networked communication, from autonomous systems to intelligent networks. Exhibitors will include Siemens, HUAWEI, Ericsson, and InterX.