MS&D Conference
International Conference on Maritime Security & Defence
3. – 4. September 2026
Where naval challenges meet civil-military cooperation
As the leading technology, security, and procurement conference for the international maritime security and defence community in Europe, MS&D welcomes high-ranking representatives from the EU, defence ministries and organisations, procurement authorities,
as well as civil maritime and naval defence industries.
Under the theme ‘Maritime Security & Defence in a Rapidly Changing World’, moderated expert panels will address the status quo of the operational readiness of European naval forces, the necessary capability enhancements, and regulations for procurement and enabling civil technology transfer. Over the course of the two-day event, the experts on stage will also cover a wide range of maritime security topics as well as innovative underwater and unmanned technologies.
In view of growing defence budgets within the EU and NATO, as well as the need for security of supply and resilient supply chains, the MS&D Conference, together with the directly adjacent MS&D Expo, offers all participants unique strategic and practical added value.
Programme 2026
(Programme draft as of 26 February 2026, subject to changes)
Thursday, 3rd September
| 10:30 | Welcoming Remarks Claus Ulrich Selbach |
| 10:40 | Introduction to the Conference – Setting the Scene Karsten Schneider |
| 11:15 | Panel 1 „Europe’s Maritime Capabilities“ Moderator: Heinz Schulte LtGen André Denk, Secretary General, European Defence Agency Irina Haesler; Brussels Representative and Member of the Board, German Shipowners Association Representative European Shipbuilding Industry (tbd) |
| 12:30 | Lunch Break |
| 14:00 | Keynote VAdm Axel Deertz, CINC German Fleet |
| 14:30 | Panel 2 „Maritime Warfare Requirements“ Moderator: Heiko Herold N.N. Navy Representatives from France, Denmark (Greenland!), or Canada |
| 15:30 | Networking Break |
| 16:15 | Panel 3 „The Underwater Domain“ Moderator: tba Submariner, UW Technology, Expert Industry, Start-up (tba) |
| 17:15 | Adjourn |
Friday, 4th September
| 10:30 | Keynote VAdm Stawitzki, National Armaments Director, Germany |
| 11:00 | Panel 4 „IT, Cyber, and Space Aspects of Maritime Security“ Moderator: tba Thomas Kazakos, International Chamber of Shipping Representatives of a Navy, Civilian Shipping, Industry, Start-ups (tba) |
| 12:00 | Networking Break |
| 12:30 | Panel 5 „Manned and Unmanned Systems“ Moderator: tba RAdm Christian Bock; Head Bundeswehr Innovation Center, Representatives Civilian Shipping, Industry, Start-ups (tba) |
| 13:30 | Closing Remarks Claus Ulrich Selbach Karsten Schneider |
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Contact
Nina Krüger
Conference Manager
MS&D | gmec | Maritime Career Market | Open Stages
- Ph. +49 40 3569-2143
Lisa Ludwiczak
Manager Protocol & Events
Protocol services for Marine Delegations
- Ph. +49 40 3569-2467
