SubCon 2024: International submarine conference in Kiel focuses on new global threat scenarios

• Over 20 navies from all over the world visit thyssenkrupp Marine Systems

• Inspector of the German Navy as patron; keynote speech by security expert

• Prof. Dr. Carlo Masala: "Security of Europe facing serious challenges, NATO indispensable, Germany must contribute to alliance security!"

• AI and digitalization as key trends, innovations and new developments in submarine construction

From September 17 to 19, 2024, the 8th Submarine Conference (SubCon) will take place in Kiel under the motto "SETTING THE PACE IN UNDERWATER DOMINANCE". The major event organized by thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is an internationally unique industry gathering: more than 20 navies and over 300 participants from all over the world will come together close to Kiel Fjord over the next few days. Under the patronage of Jan Christian Kaack, Vice Admiral and Inspector of the German Navy, the focus of this year's SubCon is on the strategic importance of international alliances and technological innovations in the face of the growing global threat situation.

Keynote speaker Prof. Dr. Carlo Masala, Director of the Center for Intelligence and Security Studies at the University of the Bundeswehr Munich, emphasizes the need for international partnerships and improved defence preparedness: "Europe's security situation is facing serious challenges. This also applies to the rest of the world. Accordingly, NATO is indispensable for Germany and other nations as the cornerstone of national and alliance defence. Europe in particular is facing a multipolar conflict situation: Russia and Ukraine on the one hand and increasing trade conflicts in Asia on the other. In this complex environment, the Bundeswehr must contribute to national defence and, as an integral part of NATO, ensure Europe's collective security."

Oliver Burkhard, CEO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, adds: "SubCon highlights the importance of good, future-oriented cooperation with our international customers and partners. Only together can we develop innovative and customized solutions that meet the specific national technical requirements and address the changing geopolitical challenges. As a 'Maritime Powerhouse' and world market leader in conventional submarines, we are making our contribution to the defence readiness of Germany and our international customers."

In addition to special new developments in submarine designs, the conference will focus on the role of AI and digitalization as key trends in modern submarine construction: AI is becoming increasingly indispensable, whether in more precise surveillance and reconnaissance through AI-supported sonar systems or in modern battle management systems for faster decision-making in conflict situations. "We have integrated AI as a fixed pillar of our product development. We are convinced that those who play a leading role in the development of AI will also play a major part in the future defence capabilities of our partners," says Burkhard.

thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is technologically well prepared for future challenges thanks to investments in all locations and the expansion of capacities at the Wismar shipyard. With SubCon 2024, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is strengthening its focus on international partnerships, technical trend topics in maritime defence: in the context of geopolitical challenges.