SMM 2026: Security becomes the dominant issue for the maritime industry

Security and resilience emerged as increasingly important priorities for the maritime industry at SMM 2026, as shipping companies, shipyards, suppliers, navies and international organisations gathered in Hamburg for four days of discussions and business activity.

While decarbonisation remained a strategic priority, geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty placed greater emphasis on maritime security, the protection of sea lanes and critical infrastructure, cybersecurity and technologies designed to strengthen operational resilience.

Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress, said the industry showed strong determination to shape its future despite geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty, with companies investing, seeking solutions and building new partnerships across all topics.

Maritime security gains prominence

The increased focus on maritime security was particularly visible in the new Naval Hall B8, which hosted the MS&D Conference & Expo. International navies, defence companies and dual-use technology providers discussed unmanned systems, sensors, cybersecurity and the protection of critical maritime infrastructure.

Klaus Deleroi, Managing Director of REINTJES, said safety at sea and protection of sea lanes are now the number one priority, calling for faster procurement of existing, proven technologies.

Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack, making his final public appearance as Chief of the German Navy, also called for shorter procurement processes and greater integration of manned and unmanned systems.

Focus shifts towards practical decarbonisation solutions

Decarbonisation continued to feature prominently at SMM 2026, with the new Energy Efficiency Hub showcasing solutions aimed at improving vessel and fleet efficiency.

A total of 24 companies presented technologies ranging from wind propulsion to fleet optimisation. Discussions increasingly focused on solutions that can be deployed in the near term, rather than relying exclusively on longer-term alternative fuel pathways.

AI discussions move towards practical applications

Digitalisation discussions at SMM 2026 also shifted from the potential of artificial intelligence towards applications that can be implemented in maritime operations.

Collision avoidance, predictive maintenance and autonomous systems were among the areas where AI and other digital technologies were being considered for practical applications.

India among first-time national pavilion participants

SMM 2026 further expanded its international participation, with 26 national pavilions and delegations from around 30 countries.

India, Cyprus and Brazil exhibited with national pavilions for the first time. India’s participation brought ports, shipyards and maritime companies together at the event to develop business contacts and explore new partnerships.

Next MS&D Conference & Expo in 2027

The next MS&D Conference & Expo, alongside the Global Security and Defence Summit, is scheduled for December 8-9, 2027, in Hamburg.