Bernd Kögel Named MD of DSEI Germany

Our Bureau - : Jul 4, 2025 - : 7:55 am

Clarion Events Defence and Security has announced the appointment of Colonel (ret) Bernd Kögel as Managing Director of DSEI Germany, effective 1 October 2025. He will lead preparations for the inaugural edition of the event, scheduled to take place in...

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Kögel, who served over 30 years in the German Armed Forces, brings experience from various roles within the Bundeswehr, the Federal Ministry of Defence, and the defence industry. He retired from the German Air Force in 2016 as a colonel in the general staff. His career included conceptual and leadership positions, with operational deployments to Bosnia-Herzegovina under Operation Deny Flight and to Afghanistan with ISAF.

Following his military service, Kögel joined the German Association for Defence Technology (DWT), where he served as Managing Director of its Centre for Studies and Conferences. In that role, he oversaw the planning and execution of events related to the defence technology sector.

His academic background includes studies in international security policy, business administration, and communications engineering.

DSEI Germany is the latest addition to Clarion Events’ defence exhibition portfolio, which also includes editions in the UK and Japan. The event will focus on defence and security issues relevant to Germany, Europe, and NATO allies, and is set to include discussions on procurement, interoperability, and security cooperation. Exhibits will cover digital technologies alongside conventional defence equipment and services.

DSEI Germany will be organised in partnership with Deutsche Messe AG and held from 9 to 12 March 2027 at the Messegelände Hannover.

“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,” said Sally deSwart, Managing Director of Clarion Events Defence and Security.

“It is with great enthusiasm and commitment that I join the Clarion Defence team to ensure that DSEI Germany reflects the country’s ambitious defence commitments and supports the defence industry in demonstrating its capabilities, leadership, and innovation on the international stage. 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," said Col. (ret) Bernd Kögel.

"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,” he added.