The AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition is the biggest land power and defense conference in North America. It runs October 12 through 14, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. The event brings together over 40,000 attendees and more than 750 exhibitors from around the world to highlight military tech, defense strategy, and national security hardware.
The crowd is a targeted mix of senior Army leadership, defense contractors, policymakers, and international delegations. If you're looking to get face time with military decision-makers, check out hardware demos, or position an agency or product in front of prime defense contractors, this is the floor to be on. It's especially useful for companies looking to connect directly with Army program offices and explore subcontracting partnerships.
Beyond the main exhibit hall, the event features dedicated programming like the Army Small Business Seminar and Matchmaking Sessions, along with forums on emerging tech and human performance. Registration is open now through their site, but lodging near the convention center fills up fast, so booking hotel blocks early through the official housing portal is critical if you plan to attend.
