21-03-2025
High-profile speakers lined up for Solent Coastal Powerhouse Summit
Maritime UK Solent is set to focus on maritime defence at the upcoming Solent Coastal Powerhouse Summit.
The summit, which will take place on March 26 and 27 at ABP's Ocean Cruise Terminal, Southampton, is being held at a time when the government has announced the largest increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
The event is set to feature several high-profile speakers and thought leaders from the sector, who will share insights into the role of maritime defence in a modern economy, the latest industry innovations, and the Solent's key role.
On the summit's first day, Commodore Marcel Rosenberg, commander of His Majesty's Naval Base, Portsmouth, will deliver a keynote address on the role of defence in a modern economy.
He will also chair a panel discussion on the maritime defence ecosystem, featuring Nick Watts of BAE Systems Maritime Services, Chris Groves of QinetiQ, and Mike Hayes of Serco.
Commodore Rosenberg said: "Defence has always had a key role in providing the stability to support economic growth.
"At the Solent Coastal Powerhouse Summit, I'll be exploring how defence can be at the heart of a thriving modern economy, where skills, innovation, research and development are recognised as mutually beneficial for defence resilience, as well as for regional and national economic growth."
The commodore is a non-executive director for Maritime UK Solent and a STEM ambassador, who actively supports regional maritime growth and innovation.
The two-day summit will also feature a range of other high-profile speakers, including Mike Kane MP, parliamentary under-secretary of state, Paul Ludlow of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises, Alastair Welch of Port of Southampton, and Dan Hook of RAD Propulsion.
Stu Baker, managing director of Maritime UK Solent, said: "With the national focus firmly on defence spending and the growing importance of maritime security, the Coastal Powerhouse Summit provides a timely opportunity for industry leaders to collaborate, share insights, and shape the future of the UK's Maritime Defence sector – which is focused on the Solent.
"Maritime UK Solent is delighted to bring together such an esteemed line-up of experts to explore the challenges and opportunities ahead."
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