22.10.2026.
12th International Scientific Conference on Defence Technologies (OTEH 2026) opens
The 12th International Scientific Conference on Defence Technologies - OTEH 2026, organised by the Military Technical Institute and the Defence Technologies Department, Material Resources Sector, officially opened today at the Omorika Hotel on Mount Tara.
In his opening speech, the Head of the Defence Technologies Department, Major General Assoc. Prof. Slavko Rakić, expressed his expectation that the topics addressed at the conference would produce new ideas and energy that would further enhance the development of domestic research and development capabilities of the defence industry and other research institutions in the Republic of Serbia in areas vital to defence.- As a neutral country, the Republic of Serbia is open to cooperating with all friendly states, whether through researcher exchange programmes, joint research and development projects, or joint participation in third markets. Our research facilities are open both to our colleagues from local educational and scientific research institutions and to colleagues from partner states, so we can share our expertise and experiences in weapons and military equipment development and strengthen cooperation – General Rakić said.
Colonel Assoc. Prof. Ivan Pokrajac, Director of the Military Technical Institute, noted that in addition to domestic papers, 15 submissions from abroad have been accepted. He emphasised that the introductory lectures would explore topics related to the application of artificial intelligence in military industry, as well as advancements in modern reconnaissance and radar systems, which play an important role in developing modern weaponry and countering contemporary security challenges efficiently.At this year’s scientific conference, local and international experts will present 160 scientific papers on defence technologies, showcasing innovative ideas in various thematic areas, including aerodynamics and flight dynamics, aircraft, weapons and vehicles, ammunition and energetic materials, integrated sensor and robotic systems, telecommunications and information systems, materials and technologies, quality, standardisation, meteorology, maintenance, and exploitation.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Defence and the Serbian Armed Forces, delegates from eminent state universities and companies, directors of scientific institutes and defence industry factories.
Sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, this year’s conference has brought together around 200 participants. The event is dedicated to the renowned Serbian scientist and mechanical engineer, Academician Miomir Vukobratović, a full member of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU) and a pioneer in humanoid robotics.
The International Scientific Conference on Defence Technologies (OTEH) is a biennial event. The inaugural conference, titled Defence Technologies for Peace, was held at the Military Academy in 2005.