The communications industry is the backbone of the modern economy, and in Russia, it is a sector undergoing rapid transformation. With a national focus on achieving “technological sovereignty,” the push to replace imported telecommunications infrastructure with domestic solutions—and new partnerships from the Global South—has never been more urgent. From high-speed fiber optics and 5G deployment to satellite navigation systems and data centers, the Russian market is actively seeking new technologies and partners.
In 2026, Moscow serves as the epicenter of this activity, hosting a major week-long technology event that brings together the key players in the industry. If there is one event that stands above the rest, it is SVIAZ, the International Exhibition for Information and Communication Technology.
Here is a detailed guide to Russia’s leading communications industry exhibitions in 2026.
The Flagship Event: SVIAZ 2026 (Russian Week of High Technologies)
For professionals in the telecommunications, IT, and broadcasting sectors, SVIAZ is the undisputed annual meeting point. Held from 7–10 April 2026, the 38th edition of this historic event took place at the Timiryazev Centre in Moscow.
A Historic Platform with Government Backing
First launched in 1975—now celebrating its 51st year—SVIAZ is the largest communications technology exhibition in Russia, the CIS, and Eastern Europe. The event is organized by Expocentre and is held under the official patronage of the Russian Ministry of Telecom and Mass Communications, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This high-level government support ensures that the event aligns closely with national digitalization strategies.
In 2026, SVIAZ served as the anchor event of the “Russian Week of High Technologies 2026” (RWT 2026). This umbrella format brought together complementary expositions, including Navitech 2026 (focused on navigation systems, technologies, and services), creating a comprehensive ecosystem for visitors to explore the full spectrum of modern communications technology.
Scale and Participation
The 2026 edition was a substantial gathering. It brought together over 360 companies from Russia, China, and Belarus across 15,000 square meters of exhibition space. The range of exhibited products covered the entire landscape of modern communications, including:
- Fixed Network Systems and Equipment: Solutions for wired telecommunications infrastructure.
- Communication Cables and Line-Cable Structures: The physical backbone of data transmission.
- Data Processing Centers (DPCs/IDCs): Equipment, software, and infrastructure for data centers, a critical growth area.
- Telecommunication Technologies: Broad range of hardware and software for network operations.
- Control and Surveillance Equipment: Security systems and monitoring tools for network integrity.
The “Chinese Wave”: A Major International Presence
One of the defining stories of SVIAZ 2026 was the significant participation of Chinese technology companies. According to reports, 51 Chinese companies from diverse provinces—including Guangdong, Jiangsu, Beijing, and Hong Kong—exhibited at the event. Chinese exhibitors showcased an extensive range of products, including:
- Communication and internet access technologies
- Antennas and cables
- Computing equipment and data storage solutions
- Optoelectronic devices and network equipment
- IoT products and smart devices
Chinese companies were noted as a “focus of the entire event,” drawing significant attention from professional visitors and highlighting the deepening trade ties between Russia and China in the high-tech sector.
Navitech 2026: Specialized Focus on Navigation
Running concurrently with the main SVIAZ exposition, Navitech 2026 offered a dedicated platform for satellite navigation, monitoring systems, and remote sensing of the Earth. For professionals in logistics, agriculture, and transportation, this specialized section is of particular importance.
Navitech featured:
- Advanced GPS/GLONASS equipment
- Vehicle and asset tracking solutions
- Precision agriculture technologies
- High-precision satellite navigation systems
The Aviation and Drone Tech Showcase: NAIS & DronTech
While SVIAZ focuses on terrestrial and satellite communications, the National Aviation Infrastructure Show (NAIS) and the DronTech Expo address the specialized communication needs of the aviation and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sectors.
Held from 4–5 February 2026 at the Crocus Expo Center in Moscow, the 13th edition of NAIS drew over 200 companies from Russia, Belarus, Iran, and China.
A Showcase of “Proactive” Import Substitution
The key theme of NAIS 2026 was “proactive import substitution” —developing technologies that, according to the organizer, “outpace Western advances”. With 92% of exhibitors being Russian companies, the event was a clear demonstration of the country’s push for domestic technological independence in aviation communications and navigation.
Highlights included:
- ZALA’s GEOKOSMOS autonomous navigation system
- Russia’s first domestically produced passenger jet bridge
- New navigation systems and engines for aircraft
The Drone Revolution: DronTech Expo
Integrated within NAIS, the DronTech Expo focused on the rapidly growing UAV market. This section is critical for communications professionals, as drones rely heavily on secure, low-latency data links and navigation systems.
Key products and themes included:
- Supercam’s S350 reconnaissance drone and SX350 VTOL-capable variant
- Kalashnikov’s SKAT 350M high-altitude UAV
- GetPwr’s semi-solid-state batteries extending flight times
- Anti-drone defense systems and counter-UAV technologies
The participation of 15 Chinese companies—offering solutions from airport infrastructure to lithium-ion batteries and UAV components—and Iranian representatives sharing their experience of developing aviation services under sanctions made NAIS a truly international event.
The Role of Chinese Manufacturers in Russia’s Communications Sector
A consistent theme across Russia’s 2026 communications exhibitions is the growing role of Chinese technology providers. As Western suppliers have withdrawn or reduced their presence, Chinese manufacturers have stepped in to fill the gap at a remarkable pace.
- At SVIAZ: The Chinese pavilion was a major draw, covering everything from fiber optic components and network switches to complete data center solutions.
- At NAIS: Chinese companies presented advanced UAV components and airport infrastructure solutions, directly competing in a market previously dominated by European and American firms.
This surge in participation is not merely opportunistic; it is strategic. Russian importers and government agencies are actively seeking long-term, reliable partners to ensure the stability of their digital infrastructure. For Chinese suppliers, these exhibitions have become essential platforms for building trust, securing certifications (such as EAC), and establishing distribution networks.
Key Takeaways for Industry Professionals
| Your Role | Priority Event | Why Attend |
|---|---|---|
| Telecom Network Operator | SVIAZ 2026 (April, Moscow) | Evaluate and source fiber optics, transmission equipment, and data center solutions from hundreds of global suppliers under one roof. |
| Satellite/Navigation Specialist | Navitech @ SVIAZ 2026 (April, Moscow) | See the latest in GLONASS/GPS hardware, precision agriculture, and vehicle tracking systems. |
| UAV Manufacturer | NAIS & DronTech (February, Moscow) | Connect with Russian aviation authorities, explore anti-drone tech, and find distribution partners for UAS components. |
| Logistics/Fleet Manager | Navitech @ SVIAZ 2026 (April, Moscow) | Source telematics and monitoring solutions designed for Russia’s unique geography and climate. |
| International (Chinese) Supplier | SVIAZ & NAIS | Russia is actively seeking alternative supply chains. These are essential entry points for building B2B relationships with major importers and state-owned enterprises. |
2026 Communications Exhibition Calendar at a Glance
| Event Name | Dates (2027) | Venue | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| NAIS & DronTech Expo | February 10 – 11 | Crocus Expo, Moscow | Aviation infrastructure, drone tech, navigation systems, import substitution |
| SVIAZ (Russian Week of High Technologies) | April | Timiryazev Centre, Moscow | Telecommunications, data centers, IT, fiber optics, Navitech navigation |
The Russian communications industry is in a state of active reconstruction, and its exhibitions reflect this energy. In 2026, SVIAZ stands as the flagship event—the critical annual meeting point for engineers, procurement specialists, and executives from across the telecommunications ecosystem. It is where government strategy meets commercial reality, and where international suppliers, particularly from China, are finding substantial opportunities.
Meanwhile, specialized events like NAIS and DronTech address the critical intersection of communications, navigation, and the burgeoning drone economy. Whether your focus is the core network, the data center, or the unmanned aircraft, Russia’s 2026 exhibition calendar offers essential platforms for business development, market intelligence, and partnership building in one of the world’s most dynamic technology markets.