ADSTAR 2026: Chief of Air Force on Innovation and Air Power

Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit is Australia's premier Defence innovation, science and technology summit where collaboration happens. It aids the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to become smarter operators, better problem-solvers and more effective leaders in a rapidly evolving battlespace.

This year's program is anchored in the Defence Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) Strategy's four lines of effort: Anticipating the Future, Experimentation, Integrated Ecosystem and Mission Driven.

Ahead of this year's Summit, Australia's Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, has delivered a powerful message on why bold, continuous innovation is no longer optional - it's crucial.

"Innovation is essential to ensuring the Royal Australian Air Force can generate and deliver airpower, deter threats, protect our nation and contribute to regional security."

From the Joint Strike Fighter to Ghost Bat, Defence Science and Technology Group's (DSTG) scientific and technological expertise has helped shape some of Australia's most advanced Air Force capabilities. Delivering real asymmetric advantage to the ADF.

"DSTG's partnerships across industry, academia, research agencies and international collaborators ensure we're accelerating the technologies which matter most," Air Marshall Chappell said.

The response to DSTG's Call for Abstracts has been unprecedented, with more than 350 submissions from over 128 organisations, demonstrating the scale of innovation that will be on show and cementing ADSTAR 2026 as our most ambitious summit to date.

ADSTAR 2026 features an expanded exhibition footprint to create even more opportunities to build connections across the Defence sector and maximise the value from this high-impact networking experience.

A limited number of ADSTAR Sponsorship and Exhibition opportunities remain. Position your brand at the heart of Australia's Defence IS&T ecosystem and connect directly with senior decision-makers and global innovators who can help bring your ideas to the forefront.

Held in Adelaide between the 4th and 6th of August, there has never been a better time to join the best and brightest minds driving the future of Australian Defence. Secure your spot now - Early Bird registrations close 29 May 2026.

"By embracing new ideas today, we build the ADF we will rely on tomorrow."

Learn more about how you can be involved on our ADSTAR website.