
About this event
Europe’s critical infrastructure is increasingly exposed — from energy grids and transport hubs to data centers and communication networks. The threat landscape has changed: low-cost drones, hybrid cyberattacks, and denied-communication environments.
From May 8-10, 2026, the first Critical Infrastructure Shield Hackathon in Switzerland brings together Europe’s top engineers, operators, founders, and industry leaders to build the systems that protect the backbone of modern society.
Prototype real-world solutions designed to operate in contested environments — from counter-drone systems to resilient communications and autonomous defense.
Visitors
If you’re curious about the outcomes and what the teams have built, you can join the Demo Day on Sunday as an EDTH Community visitor by selecting a Community Visitor ticket.
Not yet part of the EDTH Community?
Get free access to all EDTH Community events for one year, including hackathon demo days, webinars, networking sessions, and our flagship New Defense Summit
Sign up to become a member here: https://community.eurodefense.tech/
Focus Areas
Critical Infrastructure Protection (energy, transport, communications)Counter-Drone & Airspace SecurityAutonomous Surveillance Systems (UAS & UGV)Resilient Communications & Mesh NetworksElectronic & Cyber WarfareModular Sensor & Detection SystemsAI & Computer Vision on Edge Devices
…and more
Agenda
Friday, May 8, 2026
12:00 – Doors open13:00 – Welcome by Organizers14:00 – Workshop Sessions17:00 – Presentation of Challenges and Mentors18:00 – Start of Hacking
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Focused work all day
12:00 – Lunch Break12:00–18:00 – Focus Work18:00 – Progress Check with Mentors
Sunday, May 10, 2026
09:00 – Breakfast & Last-Mile Sprint12:00 – End of Hacking, Project Submission, Lunch Break13:00 – Demo Day (Open to Visitors): Project Presentations15:00 – Award Ceremony, After-Party & Networking
Topics & Tags
AI
AI
Date & time
May 8 – May 10, 2026
Europe/Zurich
Location
Winterthur
Europe/Zurich
Organised by
European Defense Tech Hub