Location: Huntsville, Alabama — Von Braun Center
Dates: March 16–17, 2026
Focus Areas: Defense • Aerospace • Cybersecurity
The Defense Leadership Forum is hosting one of the most strategically important events of the year for federal contractors targeting Air Force, Space Force, and DoD opportunities. If you support defense programs—this one belongs on your radar.
⭐ Event Overview
This summit delivers direct access to upcoming Air Force & Space Force contracting priorities for FY2026. Attendees gain:
- Insider outlooks on multi‑year contract vehicles
- Opportunities to engage with agency reps and prime contractors
- High-value matchmaking to accelerate BD and pipeline growth
- Intelligence on emerging acquisition pathways such as CMMC, OTA, and FMS
Format: In‑Person
Audience: Federal IT leaders, Defense Contractors, BD/Capture Teams, Proposal Pros
📅 Agenda Highlights
DAY 1 — March 16
- 9:00–10:30 AM — Opening Address & Morning General Session
- 3:30–5:00 PM — Matchmaking Session I
- 3:30–5:00 PM — USFCR Bootcamp
- 5:00–6:00 PM — VIP Networking Reception
DAY 2 — March 17
- 9:00 AM–12:30 PM — Morning General Session
- 12:30–2:30 PM — Afternoon General Session
🎯 BD Intelligence
Agencies Present
- U.S. Air Force
- U.S. Space Force
- Department of Defense
- Pentagon
Key Themes to Track
- Air Force FY2026 Budget
- CMMC Strategies & Compliance
- OTA + Innovation Acquisition Pathways
- Foreign Military Sales (FMS)
- “Base of the Future” Concepts & Initiatives
Networking Opportunities
- Matchmaking Sessions
- VIP Networking Reception
- Exhibitor Breakfast
- Networking Lunch
🎟 Registration Info
💎 Sponsors
- USFCR — Diamond Sponsor
- Carahsoft
💬 Final Thoughts
If your 2026 pipeline includes Air Force, Space Force, cyber, IT modernization, or base operations support, this event offers direct access to decision makers shaping FY26 funding and acquisition priorities.