SMM 2026: Security becomes the dominant issue for the maritime industry
For four days, SMM 2026 focused on the key challenges facing the maritime industry – from maritime security and resilient supply chains to energy efficiency and new propulsion technologies, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. Shipping companies, shipyards, suppliers, technology companies, navies and international organisations used the event to discuss investment, new technologies and…
The 2026 SMM (Shipping Markets & Markets) conference focused on the key challenges facing the maritime industry, including maritime security, resilient supply chains, energy efficiency, new propulsion technologies, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems. Shipping companies, shipyards, suppliers, technology companies, navies, and international organizations participated in discussions about investment, new technologies, and partnerships.
The growing importance of maritime security was evident in the new Naval Hall B8, which showcased unmanned systems, sensors, cybersecurity, and the protection of critical maritime infrastructure. Klaus Deleroi, Managing Director of REINTJES, stated that while decarbonisation remains important, safety at sea and the protection of sea lanes are currently the top priority. Industry representatives confirmed that many of the needed products and technologies already exist.
The MS&D Conference explored how navies can acquire capabilities in response to the changed security environment, focusing on new technologies, procurement, and closer cooperation with industry and research. Klaus Deleroi added that industry is ready with existing products and technologies that do not require further development.
The protection of critical maritime infrastructure was a central topic at the Offshore Dialogue, with Rear Admiral Christian Bock emphasizing the need for action and closer interaction between manned and unmanned systems.
While security and resilience are gaining attention, decarbonisation and energy efficiency remain key challenges. At the new Energy Efficiency Hub, 24 companies presented solutions across 300 square meters, focusing on immediate technologies to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, such as wind propulsion and alternative propulsion technologies.
The Global Maritime Environmental Congress (gmec) discussed decarbonisation and climate-neutral shipping, with an emphasis on collaboration across the maritime value chain and the potential of Green Shipping Corridors. Discussions at the Maritime Future Summit explored the value of AI in operations, its limitations, and the interaction between artificial intelligence and human intelligence.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.