Directed Energy Systems Symposium 2026
The symposium focuses on moving directed-energy technologies toward operational deployment.
- Date
- November 16, 2026
- Location
- Monterey, CA
About
The 2026 program addresses the shift from research and development toward fielded directed-energy capabilities. The organizer’s current sponsor roster includes Attalon, Boeing, Epirus, Lockheed Martin, and other organizations.
Who you'll find in the room
Technical experts
Technical experts are among the audiences identified for the symposium.
Operational personnel
Operational personnel are among the audiences identified for the symposium.
Decision makers
Decision makers are among the audiences identified for the symposium.
Industry and integration
Industry and integration representatives are among the audiences identified for the symposium.
Featured speakers
9 listedMr. Chris Behre
Major Matthew Cooper, PhD
Dr. Brian Hankla
Dr. Gerald Manke II
CAPT Thomas E. Pilkerton
Colonel Joseph Rosal
Col. Shannon Thompson
Mr. Allan Westenhofer
Dr. Chris Vergien
Partners on record
40 listedQuestions people ask
5 answeredDirected Energy Systems Symposium 2026 starts on November 16, 2026.
It is held in Monterey, California.
The organizer identifies technical experts, operational personnel, decision makers, and industry and integration audiences.
It is most useful for program managers, integrators and operators working on fielding directed energy systems, since the theme is moving from prototype to arsenal and the speakers include military officers such as Colonel Joseph Rosal and CAPT Thomas E. Pilkerton. The sponsor list includes Lockheed Martin, Boeing, BAE Systems, IPG Photonics and Sandia National Laboratories, so component suppliers and lab researchers can meet prime contractors and end users in one room. Those focused on early-stage basic science, or with no link to defense acquisition, would get less from a program built around deployment readiness.
Attendees at defense technical symposia usually wear business casual, such as slacks and collared shirts or blazers, with military personnel in uniform. Monterey is coastal and mild in November, so a light jacket for the evenings is sensible.
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