--- title: "LAAD Defence & Security 2027 — Rio de Janeiro" description: "LAAD Defence & Security 2027 is a professional conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Apr 13–16, 2027. Organized by Laadexpo. Full prep on Model Diplomat." url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/conferences/professional/laad-defence-security-2027" --- # LAAD Defence & Security 2027 Apr 13–16, 2027[Rio de Janeiro, Brazil](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1\&query=Rio%20de%20Janeiro%2C%20Brazil)In-person [Registration open](http://laadexpo.com.br/defence/en/about/) LAAD Defence & Security is a prominent international defense and security exhibition held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This event serves as a crucial platform for showcasing innovations in defense technology, public security, and corporate security. It brings together manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers with government authorities, armed forces, police forces, and other security professionals from Brazil and beyond. The exhibition fosters networking, business opportunities, and the exchange of knowledge on critical security challenges and solutions. ## Committees & topics - Topics The Future of National Defense: Modernization and Strategic Competition · Hemispheric Security: Transnational Crime, Borders, and Hybrid Threats · Military Logistics: Sustainment, Supply Chains, and Strategic Mobility ## Why it matters The LAAD Defence & Security exhibition is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the evolving landscape of defense and security needs, particularly in the Latin American region. As global security threats become more complex, events like LAAD provide a forum for discussing and developing advanced solutions, from cyber defense to border control. Secondly, it facilitates direct engagement between industry leaders and decision-makers, which is vital for the procurement and implementation of new technologies that enhance national and regional security capabilities. The presence of international participants underscores the global interconnectedness of security challenges and the need for collaborative approaches. Furthermore, the event's location in BRA, a key player in South American geopolitics, positions it as a strategic hub for defense and security discussions in the region. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to observe trends in military modernization, public safety strategies, and the integration of new technologies for both conventional and [asymmetric defense](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/asymmetric-defense) scenarios. Understanding the dynamics at play here can provide valuable insights into the future direction of defense and security policies across the continent. ## How to prepare To effectively engage with the LAAD Defence & Security event, delegates should undertake thorough preparation. Begin by conducting a comprehensive stakeholder mapping exercise, as outlined in the "What Is Stakeholder Mapping?" and "Stakeholder Mapping Workshop" lessons. Identify key government officials, military leaders, and industry representatives who will be present. Research their current priorities, recent policy statements, and any public procurement plans. Delegates should also familiarize themselves with the security challenges and defense policies prevalent in Latin America, particularly those of the host nation, BRA. This includes understanding the specific threats and strategic interests that drive defense spending and technological adoption in the region. Applying the principles of "Dynamic Analysis" will help in anticipating discussions and potential collaborations. Consider the "[Hidden Stakeholders](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/hidden-stakeholders)" who might influence decisions behind the scenes. Finally, develop clear "Engagement Strategies" to maximize interactions, whether through formal meetings or informal networking, ensuring that any participation is strategic and impactful. ## Country perspectives Where the most-relevant 9 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile. [Brazil](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Host nation and significant regional defense consumer, seeking to modernize its armed forces and enhance public security capabilities.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [BRA hosts LAAD Defence & Security, positioning itself as a central hub for defense and security discussions and procurement in South America. The country is a major consumer of defense and security technologies, driven by its vast territory, diverse security challenges, and ambitions for regional leadership. Its participation involves showcasing its own defense industry capabilities while also seeking advanced solutions from international partners for its armed forces and public security agencies.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [United States](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Leading global defense exporter, seeking to strengthen strategic partnerships and expand market access for its defense technologies.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [The USA is a major participant, representing a significant portion of the global defense industry. Its role is to showcase cutting-edge military and security technologies, foster strategic alliances, and explore new market opportunities in Latin America. US companies aim to provide solutions for BRA's modernization efforts and regional security needs, reinforcing bilateral defense cooperation.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [France](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Key European defense exporter, aiming to promote its advanced defense systems and establish long-term industrial partnerships.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [FRA actively participates to present its advanced defense and security solutions, particularly in aerospace, naval, and land systems. French companies seek to engage with BRA and other Latin American nations to secure contracts, transfer technology, and build lasting industrial collaborations, leveraging its reputation for high-quality defense manufacturing.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Russia](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [Significant global arms supplier, looking to maintain and expand its presence in the Latin American defense market.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [RUS participates to showcase its range of military equipment, including aircraft, air defense systems, and armored vehicles. It aims to strengthen existing defense ties and forge new ones, offering competitive alternatives to Western suppliers and seeking to expand its influence in the region's defense sector.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [China](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Emerging global defense exporter, seeking to increase its market share and establish itself as a reliable defense partner.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [CHN uses LAAD to present its growing defense industrial capabilities, offering a wide array of military and security products. Its participation is aimed at expanding its footprint in the Latin American defense market, providing cost-effective solutions, and establishing itself as a significant alternative supplier to traditional defense exporters.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Israel](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Specialized defense technology provider, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and cyber security solutions.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [ISR brings its expertise in advanced defense electronics, intelligence systems, and homeland security technologies. Israeli companies seek to partner with BRA and other regional actors to provide specialized solutions for border security, counter-terrorism, and cyber defense, leveraging its reputation for innovation in these areas.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Germany](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Advanced European defense manufacturer, focusing on high-quality engineering and specialized military equipment.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [DEU participates to showcase its precision-engineered defense systems, including naval vessels, armored vehicles, and specialized components. German companies aim to secure contracts and collaborations, emphasizing reliability and technological superiority in the Latin American market.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Ukraine](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [Defense industry participant, seeking to maintain its defense export capabilities and explore new partnerships.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [UKR's participation focuses on presenting its defense industry's capabilities, particularly in areas like aerospace, armored vehicles, and repair services. It seeks to explore export opportunities and establish collaborations with Latin American countries for defense procurement and maintenance.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [South Korea](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) [Growing Asian defense exporter, offering competitive and technologically advanced military platforms.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) [Role in topic](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) [KOR uses LAAD to promote its modern defense platforms, including naval vessels, aircraft, and land systems. South Korean companies aim to expand their market presence in Latin America by offering technologically advanced and cost-effective solutions, seeking to establish new partnerships and secure export deals.](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) ## Topics & background The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it. 1 ### The Future of National Defense: Modernization and Strategic Competition National defense policy has been reshaped by the return of large-scale interstate conflict in Europe with Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, persistent instability in the Middle East, and intensifying strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific. NATO members have pledged to exceed the 2% of GDP defense spending benchmark, with many committing to 3% or more, while non-aligned and emerging powers — including Brazil, India, and Indonesia — have launched their own modernization programs focused on indigenous industry and technological sovereignty. The diffusion of drones, precision-guided munitions, and AI-enabled targeting has lowered barriers to lethal capability and raised the cost of conventional platforms. For Latin America, where LAAD is hosted, defense priorities revolve less around peer warfare and more around border surveillance, Amazon protection, anti-narcotics operations, and the recapitalization of aging air and naval fleets. Brazil's PROSUB submarine program, Colombia's fighter acquisition, and Chile's frigate renewal illustrate the regional pattern. At the same time, partnerships with the United States, France, Sweden, and increasingly China and Israel have made the regional defense market a contested arena. The core dispute today is how states balance sovereign industrial development, export controls, and dependence on foreign suppliers amid rapid technological change. Key players - [United States](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Largest global defense spender and dominant supplier in the Western Hemisphere](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) - [Brazil](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Regional defense-industrial leader with Embraer and submarine, fighter, and armored programs](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) - [France](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Key supplier to Brazil (Scorpène submarines, helicopters) and broader Latin America](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) - [Russia](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [Historic arms exporter under sanctions, losing market share but still relevant](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) - [China](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Rising defense exporter offering financing and technology transfer to emerging markets](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) - [Israel](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Major supplier of UAVs, electronic warfare, and missile systems to Latin American forces](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) 2 ### Hemispheric Security: Transnational Crime, Borders, and Hybrid Threats Security in the Americas is defined less by interstate war than by transnational organized crime, illicit trafficking, cyber intrusions, and the spillover of state fragility. Drug trafficking organizations operating across Colombia, Mexico, Ecuador, and the Northern Triangle have grown into hybrid actors that contest territorial control, corrupt institutions, and increasingly use commercial drones and encrypted networks. Ecuador's security collapse in 2024, Haiti's gang crisis, and Venezuela's mass migration have pushed regional governments toward militarized responses and renewed cooperation through the OAS, CARICOM, and bilateral channels with Washington. Layered onto this are newer hybrid threats: ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure, foreign influence operations, illegal mining in the Amazon, and IUU fishing along South America's Pacific and Atlantic coasts. The 2015 OEWG and successor processes have set tentative norms for state behavior in cyberspace, but enforcement remains weak. The central dispute is how to coordinate intelligence sharing, lawful interception, and military assistance without eroding civil liberties or sovereignty — a debate sharpened by divergent U.S., European, and Chinese approaches to data, surveillance technology, and security cooperation. Key players - [United States](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Lead partner via SOUTHCOM, DEA, and CBP on counter-narcotics and migration](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) - [Mexico](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/mexico) [Frontline state against cartels and transit hub for migration and fentanyl precursors](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/mexico) - [Colombia](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/colombia) [Central node in counter-narcotics with deep U.S. and European security ties](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/colombia) - [Brazil](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Regional power confronting Amazon crime, cyber threats, and border porousness](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) - [Ecuador](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ecuador) [Recent epicenter of cartel violence and test case for militarized internal security](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ecuador) - [Venezuela](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/venezuela) [Source of regional instability, migration, and contested transnational criminal flows](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/venezuela) 3 ### Military Logistics: Sustainment, Supply Chains, and Strategic Mobility The war in Ukraine has been a brutal reminder that modern conflict is won or lost in logistics. Western stockpiles of 155mm artillery shells, air-defense interceptors, and precision munitions were exhausted faster than industry could replenish them, exposing decades of just-in-time procurement and consolidated supplier bases. NATO and EU members have since launched ammunition production initiatives, while the United States has restructured its defense industrial base under the National Defense Industrial Strategy. Concurrently, the Red Sea Houthi attacks, Panama Canal drought disruptions, and semiconductor export controls have shown how civilian supply chains and military sustainment are deeply intertwined. For Latin American forces, logistics challenges are different but no less acute: vast territories, limited strategic airlift, dependence on imported spares, and aging maintenance infrastructure. Brazil's C-390 Millennium, regional MRO hubs, and cooperative procurement frameworks reflect attempts to build sovereign sustainment capacity. The core debate today concerns how to balance interoperability with allies, diversification of suppliers to reduce single points of failure (including for rare earths and microelectronics), and the integration of dual-use commercial logistics — from satellite communications to commercial shipping — into military planning. Key players - [United States](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Anchor of allied logistics, strategic lift, and prepositioned stocks worldwide](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) - [Brazil](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Producer of the C-390 airlifter and hub for regional maintenance and sustainment](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) - [Germany](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Logistics backbone of NATO's eastern reinforcement and EU munitions ramp-up](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) - [Ukraine](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [Real-world case study of attritional sustainment and Western supply pipelines](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) - [China](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Dominant supplier of rare earths, batteries, and components critical to defense logistics](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) - [South Korea](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) [Emerging high-volume supplier of artillery, armor, and munitions to allied stockpiles](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) ## Resources News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for LAAD Defence & Security 2027. Recent reporting to ground your prep [Arming an archipelago: Is time running out for Europe's oldest DMZ? | Euronews](https://modeldiplomat.com/story/ala-arming-an-archipelago-is-time-running-out-for-europes-oldest-dmz-euronews) [Comprehensive approach to security: Federal Council launches consultation on Switzerland's security policy strategy](https://modeldiplomat.com/story/che-comprehensive-approach-to-security-federal-council-launches-consultation-on) [Japan's Dilemma Over Hormuz Mine Clearance](https://modeldiplomat.com/story/japans-dilemma-over-hormuz-mine-clearance) [Ukraine Drone Strikes Crimea Power Grid](https://modeldiplomat.com/story/ukraine-drone-strikes-crimea-power-grid) Lessons Bite-sized lessons to build the basics [Hidden Stakeholders](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/hidden-stakeholders) [Engagement Strategies](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/engagement-strategies) [Dynamic Analysis](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/dynamic-analysis) [Stakeholder Mapping Workshop](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/stakeholder-workshop) Courses Guided courses that go deeper on the topic [Advanced Negotiation](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/advanced-negotiation) [Multilateral Negotiation](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/multilateral-negotiation) [Policy Brief Writing](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/policy-brief) [Conflict Resolution](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/conflict-resolution) The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance [Brazil](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/brazil) [United States](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/united-states) [France](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/france) [Russia](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/russia) [China](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/china) [Israel](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/israel) [Mexico](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/mexico) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/mexico) [Colombia](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/colombia) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/colombia) [Ecuador](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ecuador) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ecuador) [Venezuela](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/venezuela) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/venezuela) [Germany](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/germany) [Ukraine](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/ukraine) [South Korea](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) [Country dossier](https://modeldiplomat.com/country/south-korea) ## Frequently asked questions - - Free account Save conferences, research any topic with AI, build position papers, and keep your daily prep streak — free. 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