Secure trade routes, protected critical infrastructure, resilient supply chains and capable navies are fundamental prerequisites for a functioning maritime economy. The MS&D Conference & Expo 2026 brings together politics, navies, industry and academia to discuss the future of maritime security and defence and to showcase technological innovation.
Maritime security is becoming one of the defining topics for the future of the maritime sector. At the same time, emerging technologies – ranging from autonomous systems and cybersecurity to AI-enabled surveillance – are creating new opportunities for security, defence and dual-use applications.
The MS&D – International Conference & Expo on Maritime Security & Defence – provides a platform for dialogue between politics, navies, industry and academia, connecting security policy challenges with technological innovation and industrial implementation. As part of SMM 2026 – the world’s leading maritime industry event – the MS&D Conference & Expo brings together decision-makers from politics, navies, industry and academia to address the future of maritime security and defence. The MS&D Conference, taking place on 3 and 4 September 2026, forms the strategic and intellectual core of the event, focusing on key security challenges, defence procurement and technological development. Complementing the conference, the MS&D Expo will showcase technologies and innovations for maritime security, defence and dual-use applications throughout the exhibition period from 1 to 4 September 2026. Together with the Naval Stage, the integrated format creates a unique environment for dialogue, innovation and international cooperation.
Where Maritime Innovation Meets Security Requirements
The challenges of maritime security can no longer be viewed separately from technological developments across the maritime industry. Many innovations originally developed for civilian applications now play a crucial role in security and defence. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, advanced sensors, cybersecurity, maritime surveillance and the protection of critical infrastructure are all examples of technologies with both civilian and military applications. With its strong focus on maritime dual-use technologies, MS&D creates a platform where innovation, procurement and operational requirements come together. The direct exchange between end users, technology providers and decision-makers makes the event one of Europe’s leading meeting points for Maritime Security & Defence.
A New Centre for Maritime Security & Defence at SMM
With its evolution into the MS&D Conference & Expo, maritime security and defence will gain a dedicated and highly visible presence within SMM for the first time. Hall B8 will become the Naval Hub of the exhibition. Here, conference, expo and networking activities are closely integrated. International delegations, navies, procurement organisations, shipyards, system providers, technology companies, start-ups and SMEs will come together in a unique environment designed to foster dialogue, innovation and business development. As the focal point for Maritime Security & Defence within SMM, Hall B8 brings strategic requirements, technological innovation and industrial solutions together in one place.
Conference, Expo and Naval Stage – Closely Connected
The MS&D Conference forms the strategic and intellectual core of the event. Under the guiding theme “Maritime Security & Defence in a Rapidly Changing World”, high-level representatives from politics, navies, industry and academia will discuss the security and technology challenges shaping the future maritime environment. Key topics include the future capabilities of European navies, requirements for modern maritime operations, developments in the underwater domain, and the cyber, IT and space dimensions of maritime security. Additional discussions will address unmanned systems, technological sovereignty and the impact of emerging technologies on maritime security and defence structures. Running alongside the conference throughout the exhibition period, the MS&D Expo showcases technologies and solutions for maritime security and defence. The spectrum ranges from cybersecurity and maritime surveillance to autonomous and unmanned systems, technologies for protecting critical infrastructure and innovative dual-use applications. Complementing both conference and expo is the Naval Stage, an open platform for dialogue, presentations and exchange. Located at the heart of Hall B8, it offers a continuous four-day programme featuring expert presentations, panel discussions, innovation pitches, buyer briefings and networking formats.
A Platform for Dialogue Between Politics, Navies, Industry and Academia
The challenges facing maritime security and defence can only be addressed through cooperation. For this reason, MS&D is more than a conference or an exhibition; it is a platform for continuous dialogue among the key stakeholders of the maritime security ecosystem. It connects strategic perspectives with technological progress, industrial innovation with operational requirements, and procurement processes with practical solutions. In doing so, it creates opportunities for new partnerships, collaborative projects and technological advancement. Anyone seeking to understand the future of Maritime Security & Defence in Europe, the technologies shaping tomorrow’s capabilities and the evolving requirements of navies, authorities and procurement organisations will find MS&D 2026 to be the ideal platform for information, exchange and business development.
More information: www.smm-hamburg.com/msd-conference