24th/05/2006

EUROSATORY 2006 at VILLEPINTE FROM 12 to 16 June

France’s commitment to resolve crises, whether nationally or as part of a multi-national force, is a constant reminder of the essential role of land forces. In common with her foreign counterparts, France bases her army’s equipment on modern and robust technologies, intended to ensure both operational effectiveness and the protection of her soldiers at an acceptable cost.

Responding to these technological and budgetary challenges are the major manufacturers capable of dealing with the most up-to-date weapon systems and at their sides, small and medium-sized companies in the forefront of innovation. GICAT, the French Land Defence Equipment Manufacturers Association, represents almost 90 companies that, in 2005, had a direct workforce of more than 14,000 with many more employed indirectly.

Every two years GICAT organizes the EUROSATORY Exhibition of land and land-air defence equipment. In 2006, Eurosatory will be at Villepinte from 12 to 16 June and more that 1000 exhibitors are expected. In total, 46 countries, 20 from the European Union, will exhibit in 25 national pavilions. 70% of the Exhibitors come from countries other than France and five countries (Brazil, Jordan, Malta, Pakistan and South Korea) are taking part for the first time. Thus EUROSATORY confirms its place as the leading international exhibition for land and land-air defence equipment. 50,000 visitors from 145 countries are expected and since the beginning of May, more than 4000 business meetings involving over 400 companies have been arranged.

New features this year include: a European Defence Institutions pavilion, the " DGA-GICAT innovation area ", 22 companies exhibiting on a 2,500m2 operational logistics area, the drones and robots area and the international defence press with more than 45 publications. The event will be covered by more that 600 journalists from the 5 continents and 120 official delegations have been invited by the French Defence Ministry.

Luc VIGNERON
President of GICAT

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