# Balkan Shield 2026 defense expo

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/balkan-shield-2026-defense-expo
> Updated: 2026-09-06T13:08:23.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 2.

The Balkan Shield 2026 defense and military equipment expo opened in Sarajevo at the Zetra Olympic Hall. The event showcases the defense industry capabilities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, featuring international exhibitors from Turkey, China, Egypt, Slovenia, and the United States.

Key domestic military advancements presented include the AC AR-15, the first domestic assault rifle from the Goražde-based company AC Unity, which is built to NATO and MIL-SPEC standards. Other featured technologies include drones from the Center for Advanced Technologies and 105mm howitzers from BNT. Political leaders noted that the defense sector serves as a strategic pillar for national security and economic development.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-06: Serbian Armed Forces launch Pobednik 2026 military exercise

The Serbian Armed Forces have launched the ‘Pobednik 2026’ military exercise on the Pešter Plateau, involving live-fire drills and the use of modernized combat and robotic systems.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/serbian-armed-forces-launch-pobednik-2026-military-exercise

### 2026-08-31: Balkan Shield 2026 defense expo opens in Sarajevo

The First Balkan Shield 2026 defense expo has opened in Sarajevo, showcasing Bosnia and Herzegovina’s military advancements, including its first domestic assault rifle and various drone technologies.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bosnia-and-herzegovina-to-host-major-industrial-and-defense-expos-in-2026

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Cite as: Balkan Shield 2026 defense expo. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/balkan-shield-2026-defense-expo