A HOST of North East companies are gearing up for one the biggest events in the defence industry's calendar, which will see them join over 1,000 exhibitors from around the world to showcase their cutting-edge products.

This year’s Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEi 2011) trade show will play host to the world’s largest display of land, sea and air applications for the defence and security industry between September 13 and 16.

Now in its seventh year, the event will include companies from 49 countries, with exhibits including vehicles from 11 different companies and a robotics and unmanned systems showcase.

A number of static aircraft will also be on display, including a full-scale mock up of the Joint Strike Fighter and the AW159 Lynx Wildcat.

The event, which will be held at ExCeL, London, and is invite only, will also include a wide range of seminars, covering topics such as rapid deployment, cyber warfare, piracy and counter terrorism.

Out of the 1,350 exhibitors expected at the event, 250 will be from small to medium-sized enterprises, highlighting the importance of smaller-scale development alongside defence giants such as BAE Systems.

Alan Lockwood, spokesperson for the event, said: “This year’s event promises to be the best yet, with businesses from all corners of the world set to attend.

“The event gives defence companies from the North East and beyond a chance to get their products noticed by some of the world’s biggest defence organisations.

“The event is not only about showcasing products used in defence and conflict, but also those used in a number of associated fields, such as security and humanitarian relief.

“These sectors create around £1bn for the UK economy through exports and it’s important that these industries are supported by events like this.

“It is also heartening that around half of the exhibitors are British, which really emphasises the importance of this sector.”