Following the successful debut of XPONENTIAL Europe, which brought together 4,000 attendees and key industry leaders, XPONENTIAL returns to the United States this May, where it has long served as the industry’s cornerstone event for advancing autonomy. From May 19–22 at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center, the U.S. event will expand on the innovations introduced in Europe, the XPO Hall will feature advancements in robotics, uncrewed systems, and AI-driven platforms that address a wide range of sectors—spanning aerospace, maritime, urban mobility, defense, and more—offering U.S. audiences new technologies and strategies to drive progress across the industry. Additionally, pivotal discussions from the Standards Forum in Düsseldorf outline the next steps in harmonizing global standards for commercial drone operations.

“The overwhelming success of our inaugural XPONENTIAL Europe set the stage for an even more impactful XPONENTIAL 2025,” said Michael Robbins, president & CEO of AUVSI. “In Houston, we’ll bridge regulatory gaps, accelerate the adoption of autonomous systems, and forge partnerships that will propel the industry forward. Our 2025 event is about moving from ideas to implementation, creating the frameworks and solutions that will define the next phase of autonomy.”

Standards Forum: Advancing Global Collaboration and Regulatory Harmonization

The Standards Forum at XPONENTIAL Europe laid a foundation for the next stage of regulatory progress at XPONENTIAL 2025. These discussions centered on three critical areas:

• Harmonization of Standards: Addressing how operators can achieve consistent regulations across borders, paving the way for seamless global operations.
• Equitable Airspace Access: Examining what’s necessary to enable safe, efficient uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) operations across diverse environments.
• Clarifying Roles: Investigating the balance between global high-level regulatory frameworks and existing technical standards, with an eye toward establishing clear responsibilities for all stakeholders.

This first-of-its-kind forum for drone commercialization sparked meaningful dialogue, establishing a collaborative approach to solving complex issues. Among the significant outcomes was the identification of opportunities for stronger coordination between key Standards Development Organizations (SDOs), including EUROCAE and ASTM, to streamline efforts and reduce duplication. A forthcoming white paper will summarize these findings and outline initial steps for harmonization.

In Houston, the Standards Forum will move from discussion to action. With expanded participation from civil aviation authorities and industry leaders, the Forum will introduce refined strategies and release a follow-up white paper detailing practical next steps. By tackling issues such as harmonizing standards for cross-border operations and providing equitable airspace access, the U.S. forum will establish a clearer path toward regulatory alignment and a unified global framework. XPONENTIAL 2025 will not only continue these critical conversations but will deliver tangible results and next steps—positioning the U.S. as a driving force for advancing the safe, scalable commercialization of autonomous systems.

Driving Global Innovation

In Düsseldorf, XPONENTIAL Europe showcased cutting-edge innovations and emerging trends in uncrewed system operations, data interoperability, and cross-domain applications. Nearly 50 exhibitors that stood out at the European event—including BAE Systems, TEKEVER S.A., and Taisync Technology—will bring their technologies to Houston, offering U.S. audiences a firsthand look at solutions that are shaping the future of autonomy.

Building on Europe’s momentum, XPONENTIAL 2025 will showcase a more extensive range of cutting-edge platforms, components, sensors, and services. Attendees can expect to see advancements in AI-powered imaging, next-generation propulsion systems, sophisticated navigation tools, and robust safety technologies—all driving the progress of autonomous systems. This expansive lineup spans over 20 industry sectors, including aerospace, maritime, urban mobility, and more, offering a comprehensive view of the innovative solutions shaping the future of autonomy.”

The XPO+ Launcher startup contest will return to XPONENTIAL 2025, spotlighting emerging companies and their innovative solutions. Arkensight, winner of the European contest, will introduce its AI-powered aerial image analysis platform to the U.S. audience. In addition, other startups will present new technologies and engage directly with industry leaders and investors, demonstrating how they are addressing key industry challenges and advancing the next wave of autonomy innovation.

Robbins added, “At XPONENTIAL Europe, we saw early achievements that laid a strong foundation for global progress in autonomy. In the U.S., we’ll build on that, uniting a larger network of leaders and innovators to accelerate practical solutions and drive the industry forward.”

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

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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.