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European Tech Resilience: Defense, Deep-Tech & The Race for Autonomy

Thursday 27 March 13:00 - 13:30 Breaking Scale

In an era of shifting geopolitics and rapid technological disruption, Europe faces a defining moment. To safeguard its economic and security autonomy, the continent must double down on defense capabilities and unlock the deep-tech potential emerging from military innovation.  History has shown that cutting-edge breakthroughs — from the internet and GPS to AI and self-driving cars — often stem from defense-driven R&D. Now, Europe has the chance to lead the next wave of deep-tech innovation. But the challenges are pressing: securing critical technologies, reducing foreign dependencies, and rethinking productivity strategies.  With uncertainty around US security commitments, Europe must act swiftly — investing in defense, fortifying cybersecurity, and fostering a resilient tech ecosystem. At the same time, its economic future depends on closing the productivity gap through automation and AI. Advanced robotics, AI-powered logistics, and autonomous decision-making could drive the next industrial revolution, and startups and investors have a pivotal role in scaling these innovations.  How can Europe take control of its technological destiny? What policies, investments, and collaborations are needed to keep pace with global competitors? Join us as we unpack Europe’s strategy for tech resilience and explore how startups can seize this moment to drive the next wave of deep-tech breakthroughs.