Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Huge military technology conference brings 5,000+ attendees to Montgomery
Reading time: 3 minutes
Thousands of cybersecurity professionals, military leaders and defense contractors are filling downtown streets this week as DAFITC 2026 officially kicks off in downtown Montgomery.
This huge military technology conference—the Department of the Air Force Information Technology and Cyberpower training and education event—returns to the capital city 43rd year, taking over the Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center from August 24–26.
Bringing around 5,000 attendees and more than 200 exhibitors, the premier defense conference solidifies Montgomery’s position as a national hub for technology, defense and innovation.
Why top military minds gather in Montgomery for DAFITC 2026
For more than four decades, Montgomery has served as the exclusive host city for DAFITC, bringing this major military technology event back to the capital city year after year. Attendance draws heavily from nearby Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex, alongside defense bases and technology hubs from around the world.
“It’s the 43rd year of it being hosted in Montgomery—it’s only ever been here. This is where our military Air Force and Space Force Guardians, alongside major contractors, come together to solve critical solutions… some of the most wicked smart people are right here to make a difference in our national cyberspace security.”
— Ron Simmons, Chief Destination Officer for Experience Montgomery
Key leadership attending this year’s conference includes the chief information officer of the Air Force, pointing to the critical national defense mission rooted right here in the River Region.
DAFITC 2026 brings 5,000 visitors to Montgomery hotels + dining
The influx of DAFITC visitors delivers a substantial boost to Montgomery’s local economy, filling hotels, restaurants and attraction spaces throughout the week. City officials, local businesses and hospitality partners have aligned to ensure seamless experiences for attendees traveling in by air and road.
Local entertainment is also front and center. Attendees will celebrate the opening day at the official DAFITC Bash on Monday evening at Commerce Music Hall, located right in the heart of Montgomery’s Alleyway Entertainment District.
“The City of Montgomery comes together—from the airport to our local restaurants—to make sure over 5,000 people have a great experience. We have everything planned from lunch options through evening events so they know how grateful we are to host them.”
— Ron Simmons, Chief Destination Officer for Experience Montgomery
Businesses serving the defense, technology, and hospitality sectors are encouraged to engage with visitors while the military technology conference is in town and explore local visitor resources at Experience Montgomery.
Will you be checking out the economic energy in downtown Montgomery during DAFITC 2026 this week? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.
