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Tuesday June 2nd, 2026 | 09:00–14:30 | Howest, Campus Brugge

The Belgian Cyber Force, A6K (CDF6000), and Howest (CDF8000) are pleased to invite you to the launch of the STRIKE-IT 2026 programme.

STRIKE-IT is a triple helix innovation programme that brings together the Cyber Force, research centres, and industry to co-develop the cyber defence capabilities of tomorrow. Following a competitive call for proposals, 12 project consortia have been selected to build innovative solutions at Technology Readiness Level 7 — meaning these are not ideas on paper, but technologies ready for real-world validation.

On June 2nd, General Ciparisse will open the event with a keynote address, followed by each consortium presenting its project in a short pitch. The morning concludes with a networking lunch, giving you the opportunity to connect with the teams behind these innovations and fellow stakeholders from across the defence and innovation ecosystem.

Register now

Howest Campus Brugge Station - Gebouw A

Programme

08:30Welcome coffee and registration
09:00Welcome by Frederik D'hulster, Director of Howest
09:10Opening keynote by General Ciparisse, Belgian Cyber Force
09:25Introduction to the STRIKE-IT 2026 programme
09:40Pitch Session 1: Proposals 1–4
10:50Coffee break
11:10Pitch Session 2: Proposals 5–8
12:30Pitch Session 3: Proposals 9–12
13:00Closing remarks and next steps
13:15Networking lunch

Who should attend?

This event is designed for anyone with a stake in Belgium's future of cyber defence: Defence end-users and stakeholders, innovation ecosystem partners, venture capital, IRSD, researchers, and industry leaders.

Whether you are an operator, a decision-maker, or a potential collaborator — your perspective matters and your presence is welcome.

Practical information

Registration

Registration is free. Places are limited to ensure a quality experience for all participants. Please register by 25 May COB 2026.

I hereby agree to the terms and conditions.