Margot ROOSE is the Deputy Mayor for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Circularity in Tallinn. With a decade-long focus on sustainability and circularity, Margot is leading Tallinn to become the innovation testing center of Europe by opening up city infrastructure for real-life testing. She is driving the growth of the “Test in Tallinn” initiative, a city-wide innovation testing playground that has expanded to partner cities like Heidelberg and Helsinki. This initiative has enabled 30+ projects from 18 countries, addressing challenges in mobility, energy, education, crisis management, circularity, and health. Margot ROOSE speaks about on how Tallinn is pioneering innovative solutions in urban setting and gearing up its crisis management preparedness. How could dual-use solutions enhance the human-centric services and city’s preparedness in response to crises? Discover how the “Test in Tallinn” initiative provides opportunities for companies to test their solutions in a real-world urban environment. International partnerships with other cities for enabling innovation sharing and testing in multiple cities. Circular Economy and the importance of material availability and circulation in urban planning and crisis management.

Waldemar Król is the CEO and a board member of Orlen Estonia, the country’s largest fuel supplier and part of the PKN Orlen Capital Group-Central and Eastern Europe’s leading multi-utility company. He holds a Master’s degree in Economics and International Business from the University of Wales. With extensive experience in business development and expansion strategies, Król is also active in promoting sustainability, innovation, and youth engagement through initiatives such as scholarships for students in energy, mobility, and environmental fields. Waldemar Król will speak about how to empower and secure critical infrastructure, focusing on strategies for strengthening energy security and resilience in the region.

Margo Klaos. Since 1994, he has served in the rescue service. He holds a BA in Rescue Technology from the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences and an MA in Public Management from Tallinn Technical University. From 2006 to 2023, he was Head of the Southern Rescue Centre and the South-Estonian Regional Crisis Committee, and from 2015 to 2017, he led the Civil Protection Task Force at the Government Office. Margo Klaos emphasises the importance of preparing the population for crises and highlights that effective civil defence relies on close collaboration between organisations and countries. They also stress that identifying the best ways to implement new technologies during crises serves the interests of all organisations involved.

Marco Krijgsman is the EMEA Team Leader for Computer Vision AI and Defence and Security at Dell Technologies Global Industries. With over 20 years of experience in business unit management, international business development, and enablement in the AI and computer vision sectors, he leads teams focused on innovative solutions for defence, security, and industrial applications across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Marco Krijgsman will speak about the use of AI-powered computer vision and edge technologies to enhance defence and security operations, focusing on innovative solutions for complex environments and real-time situational awareness in defence and policing.

David Chrobok is a representative of Vzduchotechnik s.r.o., a Czech company. With extensive experience in technical management and project implementation, he plays a key role in overseeing company operations and business development in the HVAC sector. David Chrobok will speak about safety and protection solutions for critical infrastructure, focusing on advanced ventilation and air handling technologies that enhance security and resilience in defence environments.

Jaanus Tamm is a technology enthusiast with over 20 years of experience in the fields of technology and defence. He has been a co-founder and investor in several IT, homeland security, and defence companies. He is currently the CEO of DefSecIntel Solutions, a leading Estonian defence company which he founded in 2018. The company develops and manufactures smart autonomous surveillance systems and counter-UAS solutions enhanced with artificial intelligence for border security and defence applications. DefSecIntel Solutions also has a factory in Ukraine, and its systems are combat proven. Jaanus is recognized as an expert in defence technology and innovation. He is a member of the Supervisory Board of the Estonian Defence and Aerospace Industry Association as well as the Estonian Defence Cluster. In 2024, he was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year, and in 2025, he was awarded the Order of the White Star, IV Class. Jaanus Tamm’s speech in brief: The war in Ukraine has reshaped the modern battlefield and transformed both the needs of defence forces and the offerings of the defence industry. From rapid drone proliferation to electronic warfare and layered air defence, the operational environment is evolving faster than ever— demanding rapid R&D cycles. Defsecintel Solutions has maintained a strong presence in Ukraine, working closely with frontline units and defence stakeholders. Our systems—mainly for the land domain—have been developed based on real battlefield feedback and in close alignment with end-user requirements. This presentation highlights the lessons learned by Defsecintel Solutions in Ukraine, and explains how battlefield experience has shaped our approach to autonomous surveillance systems, counter-UAS/USHORAD solutions, and how agile defence innovation can directly support defence forces and homeland security end-users.

Kalev Reiljan is a seasoned top executive and entrepreneur from Estonia. Wide experience from IT, telecoms, energy, healthcare, real estate, security and logistics industries. Kalev has worked as top executive in Nokia and Nokia Siemens Networks (Head of Sales in 2000-2008), Telia Company (CTO in 2008-2018), Elenger (Executive Board member in 2018-2022), Confido (Group CEO in 2022-2023) and Forus Group (Group CEO in 2023-2024). Kalev is currently COO of Digilogistics Centre, offering supply chain digitalization solutions and consultancy services. ESTBAN member and active angel investor in Estonia and Finland. Kalev Reiljan has graduated from Taltech and is a proud MBA alumnus of IMD, Switzerland. At Defence Expo Kalev Reiljan will speak about the importance of logistics and logistics data in the defence context.

Edward Bishop is an engineer of over 10 years experience in enterprise mobility. With a strong background in both infrastructure engineering and presales consulting, Edward has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the defence and military sector. His passion for mobile and cybersecurity drives his commitment to helping customers leverage Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) smartphones for various specialist use cases. Throughout his career, Edward has worked closely with defence organisations to design and implement secure, scalable and efficient IT systems. His engineering background and expertise in enterprise mobility solutions has enabled him to advise customers on how to effectively integrate smartphones into their operations to enhance productivity, security, and overall mission success. Join us as Edward shares his insights and expertise on the latest advancements enabling smartphones on the battlefield, and discover how Samsung’s innovative solutions can empower your organisation develop or operate solutions in the Defence space.

During his 34-year career in the Royal Navy as a warfare officer, Nick Washer held a variety of sea and staff appointments, commanded at multiple levels, and specialised in communications and electronic warfare. Combining operational and technical expertise, he has built a reputation as an experienced leader in digital and cyber operations. Most recently, as Director of Operations in Defence Digital, Washer was responsible for IT live services across defence, customer engagement, operational planning, operational service management, defensive cyber operations, management of the defence electro-magnetic spectrum and high-grade messaging services. Nick Washer, who has nearly 35-year career in the Royal Navy as a warfare officer, will talk about revolutionizing modern defence and offer a comprehensive look at the interconnected strategies shaping the future of digital defence. He will explore how the strategic exploitation of data transforms complexity into clear, actionable insights, giving defence forces the decision advantage needed to stay ahead of evolving threats. Nick will also discuss the critical role of cyber force protection in building resilience within digital battlegrounds, ensuring operational continuity and security against emerging cyber threats. Throughout his presentation, he will emphasize the importance of embedding resilience across technology, people, and processes—creating a cohesive approach that allows defence systems to withstand disruptions, adapt effectively, and maintain mission success in an unpredictable digital world.

PANEL DISCUSSION on Land Defense & Summary of the day hosted by Robert Juodka (LIT), Lithuanian Defence and Security Industry Association

Hanno Pevkur assumed office as the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Estonia on 18 July 2022. Prior to that, he was a member of the 13th and 14th Riigikogu from 2016 to 2022 and has held several ministerial positions: Minister of the Interior (2014-2016), Minister of Justice (2012-2014), and Minister of Social Affairs (responsible for the fields of work, health, and social protection). Having started his career in law, he went on to serve in the Nõmme District Administration in Tallinn in 2000-2005, first as an administrative secretary and later as city district elder. In 2005–2007, he was a member of the Tallinn City Council, Chairman of the Nõmme District Administrative Board, and an advisor to the Minister of Justice. In 2007–2009, he was a member of the 11th Riigikogu.

Jussi Voutilainen, Vice President, Business Defelopment, Baltics, at Nammo. Commander (GS) ret. Graduate from Finnish Cadet Academy and from Military University, 30 year career in Finnish Defense Forces. Jussi Voutilainen speaks about what have Defense Industry learned from the war in Ukraine and what could have been done better and what we shuold do in the future.

Marek Alliksoo is a leading industry expert in Hydrogen Technologies, Unmanned Aerial Systems, the combination of the two and an ecosystem developer of future vertical airspace. Marek is the chairman of the advisory board of the Estonian Drone Centre of Applied Research, a founder of Hydrogen Valley Estonia and the ZeroEST climate neutral manned and unmanned aviation ecosystem, on the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance’s Mobility working group, Alliance for Zero Emission Aviation and the International Hydrogen Aviation Association. He is a frequent speaker at international events, advisor at government working groups, roadmap, strategy, legislation planning committees (incl. EU level) and is contributing towards the concept and development of the Estonian Hydrogen Valley. Marek Alliksoo’s speech wil cover: The differences between “security of supply” and “energy security” from the perspective of distributed and dispatchable energy. Lessons from Ukraine’s war and how storage technologies have been integrated and how a stronger hydrogen ecosystem could have helped. Not unfamiliar to defence – hydrogen has been also extensively tested by US DoD and others with applications from Jeeps to generators to submarines to drones. How guided misinformation and disinformation has been used in hybrid warfare and who it benefits.

Eduard Vainu is an experienced leader in the unmanned aviation and defence industry. As the Chief Operations Officer at Meridein Group, he oversees strategic growth, partnerships, and business development in all three Baltic states. With a defence, engineering, and drone services background, Eduard deeply understands the global unmanned aviation and security landscape. Eduard Vainu’s speech will consist: • Historic overview • Current trends • Detection, jamming and risk management • Future trends and what can we expect for next 5 years.

Žilvinas Kvedaravičius, with over 15 years of experience in business development across governmental and commercial markets, is a serial entrepreneur specializing in high-tech technologies. Prior to co-founding Unmanned Defense Systems (UDS), I contributed to the success of NanoAvionics—a Lithuanian company known for building satellites—which was subsequently acquired by Norwegian defense and aerospace giant Kongsberg. As the Chief Commercial Officer at UDS, I bring a cutting-edge approach to developing comprehensive solutions for the kill-chain ecosystem. Žilvinas Kvedaravičius will cover how current technologies can optimize the kill-chain, providing a comparison with traditional tools such as tanks and helicopters. He will also discuss valuable lessons and insights being integrated from the battlefield experiences in Ukraine.

James Acuna has over 37 years of experience across corporate and government enterprises, specializing in advanced technology, intelligence, investigations, foreign policy, security, special operations, and emerging technologies and markets. His expertise focuses on security, geopolitics, and intelligence operations in Eurasia and Central Asia. Throughout his career, James has been a featured speaker at leading forums and media outlets including VTE Finland, Kyiv Independent, Politico.eu, Krave, Postimees, and engagements in Romania. Today, James applies his extensive background to assist venture capital and private equity firms, start-ups, and corporations seeking to navigate Eastern and Central Europe and Central Asia. From in-depth due diligence to security consulting and evaluating corporate leadership, James provides unique, high value insight to organizations aiming to understand and succeed in complex markets. James Acuna’s speech will focus on how Ukraine’s battlefield innovations with drones are reshaping how we think about warfare—driven by rapid iteration, decentralized production, and adaptive TTPs. This session explores how these lessons impact defense supply chains, operational planning, and the integration of low-cost, high-impact unmanned systems into modern force structures.

After serving as a paratrooper for eight years, Dirk Niebel studied public administration. He then worked as an employment agent. He was a member of the German Bundestag for four legislative periods (1998 2013). At the same time, he served as Secretary-General of the Free Democratic Party (2005–2009). From 2009 to 2013, he was Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development and responsible for an annual budget of EUR 6.33 billion. Since January 2015, he has been Head of International Strategy Development and Government Relations at Rheinmetall AG. He was a member of the German Bundestag for four legislative periods (1998 2013). At the same time, he served as Secretary-General of the Free Democratic Party (2005–2009). From 2009 to 2013, he was Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development and responsible for an annual budget of EUR 6.33 billion. Dr. h. c. Dirk Niebel highlights the need to prepare the population for crises, emphasising that effective civil defence depends on close collaboration between organisations and countries. He also notes that finding the best ways to implement new technologies during crises serves the interests of all organisations involved.

Reelika Mõttus is in Logistics since 2004. In military logistics since 2012. I have done that niche logistics by now 13 years. From envelope till chartering aircrafts and vessels. All sort of variety of military and strategic cargo. Having knowledges and experience issuieng transit permits and EU regulations. Background, studies, positions, achivements. I have served EDF and ECDI logistics since 2012. By now we have very good experience delivering cargo to the Ukraine, allies and mission areas , where our troops have boots on the ground. Reelika Mõttus: In defense and security efficient logistics are critical. Also it is great opportunity to connect with defense officials and security experts, industrial leaders, potentially forming partnerships with government and military clients. Goals – establish connections with defense agencies, suppliers and contractors who need specialized logistics support Companies supplying equipment, technology and services to defense industry. NATO representatives, Ministry of Defense, procurement officers responsible for military logistics.

PANEL DISCUSSION on Air Defence & Summary of the day hosted by Eduard Vainu, COO of Meridein Group

Kaupo Läänerand is Vice Minister for Maritime and Water Affairs in the Ministry of Climate in Estonia. Mr Läänerand is maritime expert with long managerial experience in international shipping and the public sector. After having worked abroad in the merchant fleet and offshore sector, he became Head of the Fleet in the Police and Border Guard Board (Coast Guard functions) in Estonia, where he initiated reforms resulting in greater efficiency, more joint operations and increased cooperation at various levels. Kaupo Läänerand as Vice Minister, he is actively finding solutions to improve Estonia as a maritime nation. This includes creating competitive and sustainable maritime policy, consolidating government owned fleet, protecting maritime environment, increasing the Estonian flag competitiveness and implementing green policy in maritime sectors. Three of the latest initiatives are preparing Ukrainian Maritime Recovery Plan and supporting creation of Estonian Marine Greentech & RetrofitHub and Estonian Maritime Cluster. One of key challenges is also reforming the water management sector in Estonia to be more efficient and sustainable. Climate changes require stronger resilience both in the water management and blue economy sectors, which is one of the strategic aims for Vice Minister.

Igor Taro is an Estonian journalist and politician who has served as Minister of the Interior since March 2025. He studied journalism at Moscow State University and worked as a correspondent and editor for several Estonian media outlets, including Õhtuleht, Postimees, and Estonian Public Broadcasting. Taro has held positions such as tourism coordinator at Võrumaa Development Agency, marketing manager at Värska Sanatorium, and County Governor of Põlva. He was elected to the Estonian parliament (Riigikogu) in 2023 as a member of the Eesti 200 party. Before becoming minister, he also served as Secretary-General of Eesti 200.

Rene Pärt is an experienced leader in the maritime and logistics industry. As the Chief Business Development Officer at Port of Tallinn, he oversees strategic growth, partnerships, and new business opportunities. With a background in both international business development and maritime operations, Pärt has a deep understanding of the global transport and logistics landscape. Rene Pärt’s speech will cover: • Transformation of the cargo harbours • The importance of transport connections • Harbours as energy HUBs – offshore wind, alternative fuels and electrification • Harbours as industrial complexes – manufacturing and value added services in the defence industry.

Aimo Kõva is a Director of International Operations and Business Development at Datel AS with a strong background in the ICT sector and project management, particularly in the development of geoinformation systems. Aimo is actively involved in advancing remote monitoring services developed by Datel AS. Early Warning System- Sille.Space, and space services designed to combat illegal construction activities, such as the Detection of Unauthorized Construction Activities. Aimo Kõva will talk how preparing the population for crises and ensuring effective civil defence relies on close collaboration between organisations and countries. It is in every organisation’s best interest to find optimal ways to implement new technologies during crises.

Amir Alon is a retired Navy Captain with rich experience in the naval domain and Business Development, originating from almost two and a half decades of service in the Israeli Navy and a decade at Elbit Naval Systems. Amir Alon speaks how effective crisis preparedness requires educating the population, fostering close collaboration between organisations and countries, and ensuring that all parties seek the best ways to implement new technologies during crises. Topics he will cover: Securing essential coastal facilities. Local and over-the-horizon underwater detection. Complete solutions against DIVERS , DPV’s, UUV’s, SDV’s and Submarines.

Charles Beyrouthy is an Innovation Specialist and Venture Capital expert that cultivates innovation partnerships, start-up initiatives and due diligence operations. Charles has conducted research and applied innovative and novel technologies at top firms in different verticals including deep tech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, life sciences, materials and process optimization. He was also a startup co-founder at LabCloud, a software platform dedicated to optimizing laboratory operations and logistics. Charles has worked with and collaborated with numerous startups, VC funds and signed top firms including ThermoFisher Scientific, Amazon.com and Staples. He also advised firms in Healthcare and Fintech. Charles’ R&D and innovation experience includes roles at Citizens Financial Group, Brown University’s Department of Chemistry, Abbott Laboratories, Dartmouth Medical School and the Silvio O. Conte National Center for Polymer Research. Charles holds a double degree with Honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. Meelis Kiiliis an Estonian Major General (retired) and politician, currently a member of the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) since 2023. He served as Commander of the Estonian Defence League from 2012 to 2019, was Commandant of the Baltic Defence College, and acted as Estonia’s Defence Attaché to the US and Canada. Kiili has extensive experience in national defence, international military cooperation, and crisis management. He holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College and has been involved in both operational and leadership roles within the Estonian Defence Forces and NATO.

National Armament Director Estonian Centre for Defence Investments Mr Magnus Valdemar Saar is a senior Estonian civil servant with extensive experience in national defence planning, resource management and investments, military supply chain operations, and logistics. Since May 2021, he has served as the Director General of the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI). In addition, he holds the role of National Armaments Director, overseeing national defence investments, acquisitions and procurement, supply chain operations, and real estate management and development.

Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager NORDSEC (Nordic Defence and Security Cluster). Experienced Commanding Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the security and defence industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Operations Management, Customer Service, Business Development, Coaching, and Government. Strong military and protective services professional and a retired Army Colonel: Graduated from the Norwegian National Defence College, Joint Sercvices Command and Staff College (UK) and Kings College. Currently the Cluster Manager of NORDSEC (Nordic Defence and Security Cluster.

Robert Garbett is one of the world’s leading experts in drone technology and the Founder and Chief Executive of Drone Major Group Limited, a global consultancy specialising in drone and counter-drone solutions across all domains land, maritime, air, and space. An ex-army entrepreneur, he concluded his military career in 2007 as head of airworthiness for the Defence Logistics Organisation, overseeing all aircraft platforms for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Through Drone Major Group, Robert advises defence, critical national infrastructure, and commercial organisations on adopting advanced drone technologies, leveraging an extensive international supplier network to deliver tailored, innovative solutions. He also founded the Drone Delivery Group, uniting senior stakeholders from industry and government-including the Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority-to accelerate drone adoption in the UK. Robert has played a pivotal role in shaping drone industry standards, chairing the British Standards Institution’s committee on drone and counter-drone standards and leading the UK delegation to the ISO committee responsible for global drone safety standards. He is widely recognised for his authoritative work on standards and for advising governments and corporates on the commercial potential and regulatory frameworks required for the rapidly expanding drone sector. Robert Garbett speaks about a proposition of how Defence Organisations can build and sustain a relationship with technology providers and industry (major primes and SME) that enables the technology choices that will drive globally pace-setting modernisation and transformation.

Heiti Mering is a visionary leader in logistics digitalization with over 25 years of experience in the IT and logistics sectors. As the founder and CEO of Digital Logistics Centre of Excellence, he has pioneered transformative solutions for secure, efficient cross-border cargo transportation systems. Mr. Mering was the initiator of Estonia’s groundbreaking Single Window concept—a unified digital platform for multimodal international transportation data. This achievement demonstrates his expertise in creating secure, standardized frameworks for sensitive cargo information exchange. Currently, he leads concept development for implementing electronic freight data (eFTI) networks across European markets, with particular focus on Baltic Sea region connectivity. His deep understanding of logistics security stems from his role as Product Manager for Estonian Railways’ Railcar Tracking System, where he developed robust monitoring capabilities essential for supply chain integrity. His targeted digitalization initiatives have led to collaborations with multiple national governments and the European Commission on secure freight transport solutions. With his unique combination of technical expertise, logistics knowledge, and governmental experience, Heiti Mering brings valuable insights to the critical intersection of supply chain digitalization and security in Baltic Sea cargo transportation.