Euronaval defense exhibition highlights global naval rearmament

The 30th edition of Euronaval, a major biennial naval defense exhibition, opened at the Villepinte exhibition center near Paris. The event arrives during a period of unprecedented growth in the global naval defense market, with production valued at 122 billion dollars between 2024 and 2025, compared to 82 billion dollars in the previous period.

A central theme of this year's exhibition is the shift toward “hybrid fleets,” which integrate traditional warships, such as frigates and submarines, with an increasing number of drones. Industry experts note a significant rise in drone specialization, with approximately 60 companies expected to participate. These technologies, including surface, underwater, and aero-maritime drones, are being paired with artificial intelligence and quantum technologies to enhance detection and combat capabilities.

The exhibition also addresses evolving maritime threats, including asymmetric warfare from non-state actors and the use of sophisticated land-based systems, such as ballistic missiles and mass-deployed drones, to disrupt maritime traffic. Additionally, the event highlights the intensifying naval competition between major powers, specifically noting the rapid expansion of Chinese naval tonnage compared to the United States.