International Conference on Maritime Security and Defence

25 November 2025 · International Maritime Museum Hamburg

Under the motto “Zeitenwende? It’s all about Procurement!”, the MS&D Conference 2025 brings together leading representatives from navies, politics, industry, and academia to discuss current security challenges and new procurement strategies. The focus lies on procurement, acceleration, and collaboration – the key drivers for the future of European maritime defence.

On 25 November 2025, Germany’s only international conference dedicated to maritime security and defence will take place as an independent event for the first time, separate from SMM – the leading international maritime trade fair.

At the International Maritime Museum Hamburg, around 120 experts will convene for an intensive day of high-level panels, keynotes, and networking. Among the keynote speakers are Admiral (ret.) Joachim Rühle, former Chief of Staff at NATO’s SHAPE Headquarters, and Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki, Director General for Equipment at the German Ministry of Defence. Both will provide key insights into current security challenges and procurement strategies in Europe.

At the heart of the discussions is procurement for European navies and coast guards – focusing on opportunities for European industry, unmanned systems as a key technology, and new formats of cooperation. The conference will also explore European and German procurement initiatives and the role of industrial partnerships in ensuring credible deterrence.

The MS&D Conference positions itself as a bridge between stakeholders and suppliers: it provides know-how, promotes transparency, and opens up new perspectives – particularly for start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises aiming to enter the defence market. At the same time, it addresses established companies from the defence and dual-use industries, innovation and development executives from business and research, and European procurement authorities looking to expand their networks and explore new avenues of cooperation.

“With this standalone MS&D event, we are creating an exclusive forum for the maritime security and defence community. The need for exchange, insight, and partnership is greater than ever,” says Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions, Hamburg Messe und Congress.

The programme is curated by the German Maritime Institute (DMI); media partner is Tamm Media.

Date: 25 November 2025 | 12:00–21:00
Venue: International Maritime Museum Hamburg
Language: English
Tickets: €350
Information & Registration: www.smm-hamburg.com/msd-conference

Participation is limited – secure your ticket now and become part of the exclusive network shaping the future of maritime security and defence.

Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH