The third BVSW SecTec 2026 conference in Munich, one of Southern Germany’s leading platforms for security technology, critical infrastructure protection, simulation and digital resilience,took place on 21 and 22 April 2026. The specialist conference showcases technologies that can be applied within the security industry to enhance protection levels and make processes more efficient.
Artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing ensure that technical innovations are coming onto the market at ever shorter intervals. Many of these can also be integrated into security technology, thereby creating opportunities to improve security and boost the efficiency of security companies. Every year, BVSW SecTec offers an overview of the most important trends and showcases application scenarios that have already proven their worth in practice.
BVSW Managing Director Caroline Eder and Tobias Schmid, Managing Director of Schmid Alarm and Chair of the Division for Manufacturers and Installers of Security Systems, welcomed the participants: “We are delighted to once again be able to present a highly topical programme featuring excellent speakers. The fact that we have once again met with such great interest from exhibitors and participants this year shows us just how relevant and forward-looking these topics are for our members and the entire security industry.”
Risk analysis via numerical simulation
The opening presentation outlined the possibilities of numerical simulation, a computer-based calculation method that allows complex physical processes to be modelled using mathematical models. Dr Daniel Huber, founder and owner of Simblast GmbH, had examined the protective effectiveness of KRITIS facilities and was able to demonstrate that there is room for improvement in this area. Numerical simulation is now becoming increasingly important, particularly in the fields of access control and building security. It can be used when it is not possible to carry out a test on the existing facility or when a real-world test would be too dangerous.
Networked systems and digital sovereignty
The presentation by Kai Eckstein, Director of Sales for Germany/Switzerland at Advancis Software & Service GmbH, focused on integrated risk management systems and their added value: by consolidating various data sources and analysing them via AI, a comprehensive situational picture is created. This allows risks to be assessed more effectively and response times to be reduced.
Sensors and artificial intelligence are also revolutionising visitor management in companies. Digital processes not only increase efficiency but also improve visitor navigation and security, as Christian Graf, Head of Development Management at NWS Digital GmbH, explained.
Increasing connectivity and new technologies are also influencing IT security architecture, which must adapt to a growing dynamic. Prof. Dr Gabi Dreo Rodosek from the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich explained that AI creates numerous new attack vectors that criminals can exploit. On the other hand, companies can use AI to improve their defences, for example through the automated detection of malware. In view of increasing geopolitical conflicts, the professor of computer science also emphasised the importance of Europe’s digital sovereignty.
Drone defence: technical possibilities and legal framework
On the second day of the congress, the focus was initially on drone defence, following the increasing frequency of incidents involving unmanned aerial systems. Hans-Peter Stuch, head of the research group at the Fraunhofer Institute FKIE, provided an overview of current methods for detection and defence – ranging from radar and radio signal analysis to optical and acoustic methods.
This was immediately followed by an examination of the legal perspective on drone defence. Lawyer and specialist author Dr Ulrich Dickert made it clear that the scope for action in the civil sector is severely limited. Drone detection, on the other hand, offers a legal means of defending against unauthorised drones. Before companies invest in expensive systems, they should inform themselves thoroughly about the legal framework, the expert advised.
Artificial intelligence as a driver of new solutions
The presentation by Sophia Simon, Managing Director of acc:urate GmbH, demonstrated how computer simulations can improve safety in public spaces. The simulations offer a way to understand the dynamics within large crowds. This allows evacuation plans to be reviewed and procedures in buildings or event venues to be optimised in order to avoid dangerous bottlenecks and overcrowding.
The event concluded with a concrete example of artificial intelligence in the security sector. Markus Vollerthun, Managing Director of VD Mayr GmbH, and Yannick Evans, Co-Founder of Paul’s Job, explained how the introduction of AI has helped the security service provider to make its recruitment processes significantly more efficient.
Trade exhibition and in-depth discussions
Complementing the conference programme, eleven security companies presented their solutions as part of an accompanying exhibition: Nedap, Schmid Alarm, Dehn, hensec secure solutions, puvp, EM-Shield, Kötter Security, Salto, ID Ausweissysteme, Securitas and Nürnberger Wach- und Schließgesellschaft.
The tried-and-tested lunch-to-lunch format, several networking breaks, and a joint champagne reception followed by dinner on the first day also provided the ideal setting for discussion and making new contacts.
