XPONENTIAL highlights the technologies, collaborations, and innovations advancing autonomy and solving real-world challenges across sectors

HOUSTON (Jan. 23, 2025) — Autonomous systems are transforming industries, addressing some of today's most pressing challenges in areas such as defense, cybersecurity, and public safety. From counter-UAS technologies safeguarding critical infrastructure to AI-powered drones revolutionizing disaster response, these examples demonstrate how advancements in autonomy are driving real-world impact. At the center of these innovations are collaborations between industry, government, and academia—spotlighted at XPONENTIAL 2025, THE technology event for autonomy.

Taking place May 19-22, 2025, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, XPONENTIAL will unite more than 8,000 leaders, engineers, researchers, policymakers, and end users from 20+ industries. Through live demonstrations, expert-led sessions, and interactive workshops, the event highlights the partnerships, trends, and solutions shaping the future of autonomy. Whether driving advancements in national security, enabling disaster response, or transforming industries like logistics, agriculture, and infrastructure, XPONENTIAL serves as the global hub for advancing autonomous innovation.

"XPONENTIAL creates an environment where big questions can be explored, and great ideas can happen," said Michael Robbins, President and CEO of AUVSI. "By bringing together leaders across defense, public safety, and industry, the event helps us move toward points of friction in the industry so that we can help to solve problems and accelerate progress. It's where the community connects to tackle challenges and shape the future of autonomy."

ADVANCEMENTS DRIVING THE FUTURE OF AUTONOMY

Defense and Cybersecurity Innovations
XPONENTIAL 2025 will spotlight advancements addressing some of the most pressing global concerns in defense and cybersecurity. The U.S. Department of Defense's Replicator initiative for example, is working to deploy thousands of autonomous systems to enhance military readiness. Exhibitor Aerovironment is a leader in Replicator-awarded contracts and will demonstrate its contributions to this critical program. Companies like Echodyne and Epirus will also showcase counter-UAS technologies that offer advanced detection and mitigation capabilities for evolving drone threats, which have been identified as future Replicator areas of focus

In cybersecurity and supply chain security, exhibitors like INSPIRED FLIGHT and Doodle Labs will showcase their Green UAS certified drones and components as will companies whose platforms are on the Defense Innovation Unit's Blue UAS Cleared List. Both lists demonstrate compliance with cyber security and supply chain requirements as mandated by Congress in the 2020 and 2022 National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAA).

Real-World Applications Across Industries
XPONENTIAL highlights how autonomous systems are solving real-world challenges across diverse sectors. In disaster response and public safety, exhibitors like Horizon Aerobotics will present AI-powered drones that deliver real-time situational awareness for emergency operations and critical infrastructure inspections, enabling faster, more effective decision-making in high-stakes scenarios.

Additionally, Texas A&M's Aerospace & Defense Innovation Triangle, a collaboration with Silicon Valley's Plug and Play, will showcase its advancements in autonomous mapping and navigation technologies. These partnerships demonstrate how academic research and industry collaboration are driving real-world impact, further emphasizing XPONENTIAL's role in showcasing practical, innovative solutions.

Collaboration and Ecosystem Building
Partnerships are at the heart of advancements in autonomy, and XPONENTIAL serves as the platform to experience these collaborations firsthand.

As exhibitors, researchers, and policymakers come together to showcase how these collaborations are solving critical challenges and shaping the future of autonomy, attendees will also find unparalleled opportunities to connect with the ecosystems that fuel innovation across industries.

"XPONENTIAL brings together the brightest minds and boldest ideas," said Tom Mitchell, president of Messe Düsseldorf North America. "It provides attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with the trends, innovations, and partnerships driving the uncrewed systems industry forward unlike any other event."

In addition to highlighting cutting-edge advancements and collaborations, XPONENTIAL 2025 will feature a full day of specialized education programming, including expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and debate-style discussions. These offerings provide participants with practical knowledge and valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping autonomy across sectors. From exploring the latest advancements to connecting with industry leaders, XPONENTIAL fosters an environment for meaningful learning, collaboration, and innovation.

AUVSI's commitment to advancing autonomy extends beyond XPONENTIAL 2025. In February 2025, XPONENTIAL Europe will convene in Düsseldorf, bringing together global leaders to explore innovations in national security and other key areas. Together, these events underscore the shared challenges and collaborations driving progress across the autonomy landscape.

Registration for XPONENTIAL 2025 is now open. Visit xponential.org to register or learn more about the full lineup of programming, exhibitors, and keynotes.

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About XPONENTIAL  
Co-hosted by AUVSI and Messe Düsseldorf North America, XPONENTIAL is the leading annual gathering for global leaders and end users of uncrewed technologies. Hosted by the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of uncrewed systems and by one of the world's largest organizers of international trade shows, XPONENTIAL is the only event designed to advance the entire autonomy ecosystem.

Stay connected with event updates by following XPONENTIAL on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube for event updates. Join the conversation using the official hashtag #XPO25.