This exciting meeting crosses the divide between fundamental optical science and the application of the underpinning technologies in advanced defence and security systems. New challenges continue to emerge in areas such as in relation to network-enabled capability/network-centric warfare and military operations/peace-keeping in the urban theatre, which are changing the way that the technology base is likely to be exploited in the future. This unique symposium is the ninth of its kind to be held in Europe, and will offer many opportunities to network with colleagues from a variety of disciplines in academia, industry, and government from all over the world. This Symposium will consider and discuss all aspects of this evolving field such as materials, optical devices, enabling technologies, advanced system concepts, sensors (including design and fabrication), silicon micro-systems, nanotechnology, electro-optic systems, lasers, millimetre wave/THz technology to name but a few.  Engineers and researchers from government, military, academia and the commercial sector will discuss current status and future directions.  This year's meeting also features a new conference addressing high-power lasers and effects.The event is sponsored by Selex Galileo and Thales and delivered with the support of Scottish Enterprise.