Local Defence primes and SMEs can look forward to an unprecedented opportunity to explore international markets and liaise with key decision makers when the largest global event dedicated to undersea defence technology comes to town.

From 2026, Adelaide will host the globally recognised defence trade exposition, Undersea Defence Technology (UDT), under a three-year deal that will see the event held outside of Europe for the first time in its 37-year history.

Held over three days at the Adelaide Showground in December 2026, UDT Australia is expected to attract more than 2,000 delegates, including leading experts, government officials, and military personnel from around the world.

Managing Director at Clarion Events Defence and Security, Sally deSwart, explained Adelaide’s lead role in the AUKUS alliance as the build location for the SSN-AUKUS conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines and the state’s innovation in undersea defence technology made it the ideal location for UDT’s historic move abroad.

“Bringing Undersea Defence Technology to Adelaide is an important strategic development for Clarion Defence, bringing UDT into a new region at a critical time for the defence sector and re-enforcing key alliances between the UK and Australia,” Ms deSwart said.

“We welcome the participation and support of the South Australian Government in the planning and organisation of UDT.

“The input from these officials in the conference program and themes will ensure that UDT is shaped to reflect the requirements of the Australasian and Asia Pacific regions.”

Clarion Events is known for hosting world-leading defence events globally including DSEI UK, DSEI Germany, DSEI Japan, and APEX Defense.

Adelaide’s successful bid to host UDT from 2026-2028 resulted from a joint bid led by Business Events Adelaide, with support from the South Australian Government through Defence SA, the Adelaide Economic Development Agency and the City of Adelaide.

Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Adelaide, Damien Kitto, said the ‘Team Adelaide’ approach was key.

“Business Events Adelaide works globally to identify and attract business events that fit our sectors of strategic strength, and UDT is a prime example of that,” Mr Kitto said.

“Not only will these business events generate a strong financial return for our members but will also provide a significant economic tail of enduring benefits, collaboration and connectivity to defence experts from around the world.

“Securing this business event has been a true ‘Team Adelaide’ effort, and we are grateful for the support we have received to secure it.”

Bringing together global end-users, researchers and industry professions from across the world, UDT provides innovative conference content and networking opportunities, incorporating the latest technologies in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and advanced technologies in the underwater domain.

Read the media release.