Connect Group Returns to NEDS 2026 Following Strong Growth in Defence

Connect Group will return to NEDS 2026 in Rotterdam at a time of significant momentum for its Defence business. Following strong growth over the past two years and continued investment across its European manufacturing network, the company will showcase how it is strengthening its position as an integrated manufacturing partner for Defence and Aerospace programmes.

Defence has become one of Connect Group's fastest-growing strategic markets.

Between 2024 and 2026, the company's Defence business achieved 89% CAGR, reflecting both the increasing demand for European industrial capacity and Connect Group's growing involvement in mission-critical programmes.

This growth is not only reflected in new projects. It is also visible in the investments and capabilities being developed across the Group to support increasingly demanding Defence and Aerospace requirements.

Over the past year, Connect Group has continued to expand the industrial foundations behind its Defence activities.

One of the most significant developments has been the expansion of AS9100D capabilities across the Group.

Following the successful certification of the Ieper facility, certification programmes are now progressing in Kampenhout, Kladno and San Sebastián, creating a broader network of Defence-ready manufacturing locations capable of supporting Aerospace and Defence customers across multiple technologies and product categories.

At the same time, Connect Group is also advancing its ISO 27001 programme across the organisation, strengthening information security and supporting the requirements of sensitive projects and long-term Defence programmes.

Beyond certifications, Connect Group has continued to invest directly in manufacturing capabilities that support high-reliability applications.

Earlier this year, the company introduced a new advanced coating area in Ieper, expanding its capabilities for Defence and other high-requirement sectors. The investment includes advanced coating technologies designed to improve durability and protection for electronic assemblies operating in demanding environments. 

In Kladno, Connect Group also expanded its manufacturing capabilities through new adaptive coating technologies, further strengthening its ability to support complex electronics manufacturing requirements. 

Meanwhile, in Kampenhout, investments in cable assembly precision technologies continue to reinforce the company's Cable & Wire Systems capabilities, an increasingly important element of modern Defence platforms and systems. 

Together, these initiatives reflect a broader strategy: building the specialised manufacturing capabilities required for the next generation of Defence programmes.

As Defence programmes become more complex, customers are increasingly seeking partners able to support a larger portion of the manufacturing process.

Connect Group's integrated model combines:

• High-reliability PCBA
• Cable & Wire Systems
• Mechatronics
• System Integration
• Testing & Qualification
• Lifecycle & Obsolescence Management

within a single manufacturing organisation.

This approach helps customers reduce supply-chain complexity while improving visibility, accountability and long-term programme continuity.

One of the defining characteristics of Defence programmes is their lifespan.

Many systems remain operational for decades, requiring manufacturing partners that can support products far beyond initial production.

To address this challenge, Connect Group continues to strengthen capabilities in obsolescence management, component monitoring, redesign support, long-term storage and lifecycle management, helping customers maintain programme continuity over the long term.

The Defence discussion is increasingly shifting beyond technology alone.

Industrial readiness, manufacturing capacity, quality systems and long-term programme support are becoming equally important factors in delivering the next generation of European Defence capabilities.

With growing Defence activity, expanding certifications and continued investments across its European footprint, Connect Group will use NEDS 2026 as an opportunity to discuss how manufacturing capability can support these evolving industry requirements.

Meet Connect Group at NEDS 2026

📍 Booth E21.1 | NEDS 2026 | Rotterdam
📧 defence@connectgroup.com

Connect Group looks forward to meeting customers, partners and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of Defence manufacturing.