ADSTAR - Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit

Returning for its third instalment, the Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit will bring together the brightest minds from Defence, government, industry, and academia to collaborate, challenge, and co-create the future of Australia's defence capability.

At its heart, ADSTAR 2026 explores The Art of the Possible - how creativity, collaboration, and scientific excellence can be harnessed to anticipate threats, seize opportunities, and deliver impact where it matters most.

In an increasingly complex world, innovation thrives where curiosity meets purpose. ADSTAR 2026 is about imagining what's next and turning that imagination into capability.

Through an immersive program, demonstrations, and discussions, delegates will explore how science and technology can equip a modern fighting force to achieve Defence's mission advantage and strengthen Australia's strategic resilience in a technology-dominated world.

Under the theme "Delivering more together", ADSTAR 2026 will explore four key subthemes shaping the next decade of defence innovation:

• Anticipating the Future
  How can we better forecast emerging threats and opportunities? This subtheme explores foresight, trends, and analysis to ensure Australia stays ahead of the curve.
• Experimentation
  Innovation demands courage to test, trial, and sometimes fail fast. This subtheme spotlights experimentation as a driver of discovery turning creative ideas into practical solutions.
• Integrated Ecosystem
  Defence innovation doesn't happen in isolation. This subtheme celebrates collaboration across Defence, government, academia, and industry building an ecosystem where partnerships accelerate capability.
• Mission Driven
  Science and technology must deliver outcomes that matter. This subtheme focuses on aligning research and innovation to Defence missions, ensuring that every idea has a pathway to impact.

Be part of the critical conversation

ADSTAR 2026 will be a meeting place for innovators, decision-makers, and practitioners who believe in the power of science and technology to protect Australia's future.

Join us in Adelaide to:

• Discover the latest in Defence innovation and research.
• Engage with leaders shaping national and international science and technology priorities.
• Build new partnerships across Australia's Defence innovation, science and technology ecosystem.
• Contribute to a shared vision for capability transformation.

Delegates will have the chance to exchange ideas, form partnerships, and help shape and transform the direction of Defence innovation for years to come. Together, we'll explore The Art of the Possible.

For more information and to subscribe to event updates, visit the ADSTAR Summit website.