Visit Johns Hopkins’ website to view lodging near the forum venue.
Welcome to AIAA DEFENSE Forum 2026—the Institute’s Secret/NOFORN event covering strategic, programmatic, and technical topics and policy issues pertaining to the aerospace and national security community.
Registration for the forum is open. Join leaders from the U.S. government and military, along with innovators from industry and academia as we discuss technical issues of strategic concern in the U.S. national security arena.
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AIAA DEFENSE Forum is a Secret/NOFORN event that convenes senior aerospace and defense leaders to advance and accelerate innovation. The forum features in-depth discussions on strategic, programmatic, and technical topics, as well as the policy challenges shaping the future operating environment. It provides a trusted setting for candid dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of insights to inform critical decisions and strengthen strategic capabilities across the aerospace and security ecosystem.
AIAA DEFENSE Forum 2025 by the Numbers
473
Attendees
133
Organizations
30
Government Agencies
136
Technical Briefings
16
Technical Disciplines
24
Speakers
Founding and Executive Sponsor
Sponsors
AIAA Corporate Partners
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is the largest and most prestigious community of aerospace professionals in the world. AIAA exists to help aerospace professionals and their organizations succeed across government, industry, and academia.