Colonel Bernd Kögel To Lead DSEI Germany

Clarion Events Defence and Security has announced the appointment of Colonel (ret) Bernd Kögel as Managing Director of DSEI Germany, effective 1 October 2025. Kögel will oversee the launch of DSEI Germany in Hannover, scheduled for March 2027, as DSEI expands to support evolving defence and security requirements.

Kögel served over 30 years in the German Armed Forces, gaining experience across the Bundeswehr, the Federal Ministry of Defence, and defence industry. His background includes leadership roles and operational deployments to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Afghanistan. After retiring as a colonel in 2016, he became Managing Director at the German Association for Defence Technology’s Centre for Studies and Conferences.

DSEI Germany will connect innovators, manufacturers, military representatives, and decision-makers from NATO and allied nations, focusing on rearmament, procurement, interoperability, and security policy. The event will highlight defence capabilities from Germany and European partners, including developments in digital technology and traditional military equipment.

Sally deSwart, Managing Director of Clarion Events Defence and Security portfolio, said:“Bernd joins DSEI Germany at a pivotal moment for Europe, as the continent works to reinforce its security amid the most dangerous and complex conditions of the century. His experience working in the Bundeswehr and across NATO operations, coupled with his insights of the defence industry, makes him ideally suited to lead DSEI Germany into its inaugural edition, showcasing German industrial prowess and strengthening relationships with key allies.”

Col. (ret) Bernd Kögel said: “DSEI Germany will offer a unique opportunity to focus on the priorities of Germany, the European Union and NATO, in building and enhancing military capabilities. The launch comes at a turning point in Germany’s defence policy, as part of an increased commitment to bolstering European defence and taking a greater leadership role within NATO. DSEI Germany joins its sister shows in the UK and Japan as standout events in the global defence exhibition calendar.”

DSEI Germany will be held in partnership with the Deutsche Messe AG and will take place 9-12 March 2027 at the Messegelände Hannover.