The EstMilTech 2026 conference focuses on the future of military decision-making and the role of technology in next-generation conflicts. Universities play a key role in developing new technologies that are both intelligent and secure. For this reason, universities work closely with the public sector and private companies to ensure that potential risks are carefully considered before new technologies are deployed in real-world settings.
On 14–15 January, Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) will host the international conference EstMilTech 2026, dedicated to the future of military decision-making and the impact of emerging technologies on modern conflict. The main theme of the conference is “Military Decision Making in the Era of New Technologies.” Discussions will address the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence (AI), explore cognitive warfare, and examine cooperation between academia and industry.
Ahead of the conference, Rain Ottis, Professor of Cybersecurity at TalTech, explains:
“TalTech researchers have made—and continue to make—a significant contribution to Estonia’s security through research and development, working closely with national defence and internal security institutions, as well as with partners across Europe and NATO. In addition, we support local defence-sector companies through applied research.”
At the international defence technology conference EstMilTech 2026, experts will gather to discuss how digital solutions, artificial intelligence, and other smart systems can support human decision-making and contribute to a safer society. A central focus of the conference is ensuring that humans remain in control and that critical decisions are not left solely to machines.
The public sector brings real-world challenges to the conference—such as which systems must remain operational during crises and how to guarantee their reliability under extreme conditions. Industry representatives will share insights into how technologies are implemented in practice. Universities connect these challenges with research and knowledge, developing solutions that are both innovative and robust.
This collaboration highlights a fundamental shift: technology development is no longer just about invention—it is also about societal responsibility. Universities play a crucial role in shaping the rules and values that guide future solutions.
Security is not an add-on—it is embedded in technology from the very beginning.
The conference is organised in cooperation with Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), the Ministry of Defence, and the Estonian Military Academy.