Automation News: Issue 1

HANNOVER MESSE

Hannover Messe 2026: industrial innovation meets strategic security Hannover Messe, the world’s largest industrial trade fair, returns for its 77th edition at the Hannover Exhibition Centre from 24–28th April 2026. A gainst a backdrop of rising European military spending and shifting geopolitical priorities, the fair will

and policymakers from around the world. Key themes include automation, sustainability, energy transition, and defence technology, highlighting how industrial advancements are increasingly entwined with geopolitical strategy. Hall 26 alone will host the Defence Production Arena, with around 50 exhibitors providing demonstrations, matchmaking opportunities, and guidance for entering

Messe, from hydrogen fuel cells and digital twins to smart factories and sustainable production solutions. Automation News visited some of the most exciting exhibitors to find out what they planned to showcase. Classiq Technologies: accelerating quantum software Classiq Technologies, a pioneer in quantum software design automation, is showcasing how quantum computing can move from experimental labs into industrial practice. for industrial applications

spotlight the intersection of industrial innovation and

defence technology. Dr Jochen Köckler,

Chairman of the Managing Board of Deutsche Messe, stressed the growing strategic dimension of this year’s event. “Not only the industrial turning point but also the new geopolitical situation requires rapid defence technology development,” he said. Political participation at Hannover Messe 2026 reflects this shift. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is confirmed to open the fair alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Their presence underscores Hannover Messe’s dual role as a showcase for industrial innovation and a forum for global economic and security dialogue. Spanning 27 halls and hosting over 1,500 exhibitors, the fair will bring together industrial leaders, innovators,

A six-year-old Israel- based company’s platform acts as an AI copilot for programming quantum computers, even though quantum computers themselves are not yet ready for widespread commercial use. This, says Classiq, enables engineers to jump ahead, developing algorithms for optimisation, material simulation, and manufacturing efficiency. “You can already start working on it now… and once the quantum computers really provide that advantage, they can immediately run their code and benefit from it,” said Nikolai Strah, Commercial Director DACH. Quantum computing promises performance far beyond classical systems, particularly

for complex supply chain, manufacturing, or engineering simulations, while integrating with classical computing workflows. Classiq already counts over 40 commercial clients, including BMW, Mitsubishi Chemical, and Comcast, all using the platform to build “quantum ready” software and IP. Using a quantum simulation achievable on a classic computer, Classiq enables engineers to design quantum algorithms without the need for in-depth quantum coding expertise, allowing rapid prototyping and optimisation for tasks such as logistics, materials simulation, and predictive maintenance. “Our focus is enabling industrial engineers to explore quantum computing benefits in a practical

way, bridging the gap between abstract theory and operational value,” said Strah. Agile Robots: Germany’s Agile One humanoid looks to boost industrial and defence production Another company to look out for at this year’s show is Agile Robot, a European leader in industrial automation solutions, which will be presenting its first European humanoid, Agile One. Agile is currently in the process of setting up the first production lines for Agile One in Germany and is hoping to offer the machine to manufacturers as part of a wider robotics solution.

the defence sector, including dual-use considerations.

Alongside global leaders such as Siemens, ABB, Bosch Rexroth, and Mitsubishi Electric, European and UK firms will highlight their latest products at Hannover