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Contents CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME NOTE ...... 3 TUESDAY 3rd MARCH...... 4 PLENARY SESSION: INTERNATIONAL STRATEGY OVERVIEW ...... 4 EMERGING CHALLENGES IMPACTING UNDERWATER WARFARE ...... 4 OPENING CONFERENCE KEYNOTE FROM THE SECOND SEA LORD……………...…………………...... ……….4
NEW CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENTS TO MEET EMERGING THREATS ...... 5 THE EMERGENCE OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE FUTURE OF UNDERWATER DEFENCE AND SECURITY ..... 5 UNDERWATER CONSIDERATIONS FOR FUTURE FLEETS ...... 6 WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH ...... 7 STREAM A: MINE COUNTERMEASURES – In Association with ECA Group ...... 7 CURRENT MCM CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENTS...... 7 OPTIMISING THE MCM TOOLBOX THROUGH OPERATIONAL FEEDBACK ...... 8 OFF BOARD SYSTEMS FOR MCM OPERATIONS ...... 8 SHAPING FUTURE PROGRAMMES AROUND EXPECTED THREATS...... 9 STREAM B: SUBMARINES AND SUPPORTING PLATFORMS ...... 10 NEXT GENERATION SUBMARINE PLATFORMS ...... 10 INTERNATIONAL SUBMARINE PROGRAMMES ...... 10 ENSURING SUBMARINES CAN FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY AS A MULTI-STATIC ASSET ...... 11 SPECIAL OPERATION FORCES INTEGRATION ...... 11 STREAM C: ANTI-SUBMARINE WARFARE ...... 13 THE IMPORTANCE OF SURFACE FLEETS TO ASW ...... 13 ENABLING SMART ASW VIA UNMANNED OR AUTONOMOUS ASSETS ...... 13 FIXED WING DEVELOPMENTS AND IMPACT ON ASW ...... 14 MAXIMISING THE ROTARY WING ASW RESPONSE ...... 14 STREAM D: ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS ...... 16 SUBMARINE ESCAPE AND RESCUE ROUND TABLE: Hosted by JFD ...... 16 THURSDAY 5th MARCH ...... 17 STREAM A: PREPARING FORCES FOR UNDERWATER THREAT RESPONSE ...... 17 PREPARING FORCES TO FACE NEW UNDERWATER CHALLENGES ...... 17 FINDING THE EDGE FOR ENHANCED ANTI SUBMARINE WARFARE ...... 17 STREAM B: UNMANNED AND AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS IN THE UNDERWATER DOMAIN ...... 19 DEVELOPMENTS IN UNDERWATER UNMANNED SOLUTIONS ...... 19 THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS TO THE FUTURE WARFIGHTER ...... 19 PLENARY CONFERENCE – CLOSING SESSION: BALLROOM 3 ...... 21 THE FUTURE OF UNDERWATER DEFENCE AND SECURITY ...... 21 CLOSING CONFERENCE KEYNOTE FROM THE FIRST SEA LORD...... 21
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CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME NOTE
Welcome to the 2020 Underwater Defence and Security Conference, hosted in Southampton, UK. This annual event is the premier international forum for discussions on underwater strategy, capabilities and technologies, setting the scene for the year to come and the future beyond.
The underwater environment is going through a resurgence in importance. Whether it is in the North Atlantic, Asia/Pacific region, Middle East or, indeed, globally through littoral seaspace, change and new threats and opportunities abound. The underwater environment is international by definition and increasingly, military and commercial interests cannot be separated; it is progressively contested by competing interests. These changes are being matched by new capabilities. Autonomy and the digital revolution are having as great, and perhaps greater impact in the underwater environment as elsewhere; those who don’t keep up with capability developments will be increasingly marginalised and will gradually cede control. The immediate post-Cold War years when attention shifted from the underwater environment are now very much in the past.
When discussing the underwater environment we have traditionally viewed it through the lens of submarines, anti-submarine warfare and mine warfare. These retain their importance but on their own do not cover the span of important issues that need to be addressed. Defence Leaders acknowledges this and has listened to feedback from previous conferences and stakeholders. They have worked hard over the last six months, researching and analysing the current market trends, ongoing programmes and upcoming procurement projects in order to design an agenda to fully engage the broad community of interest and stimulate discussions well beyond the conference. The major development for this year’s conference is the format change from a streamed day on the first day with two plenary days following, to the new format with one plenary day and the six focus areas following across two days. These will include recurring themes from previous years, such as Submarines, ASW and MCM. However, this year will be more rounded and include specific focus on areas such as autonomy, C4ISR, Port Security, Safety, Training and Infrastructure Protection.
I am chairing this Conference for the first time; it is about an environment that has been at the heart of my professional career. We expect over 500 attendees from across the stakeholder community, from industry to the military. I am particularly looking forward to the international dimension. Likeminded nations will only prevail to make this environment safe if we not only pool our resources but also our thinking and commitment. This conference offers a unique opportunity to advance this.
I look forward to welcoming you to Southampton in March 2020.
Sincerely,
Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB Underwater Defence and Security 2020 Conference Chairman
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UNDERWATER DEFENCE AND SECURITY 2020 3rd – 5th March 2020, Hilton at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, UK www.DefenceLeaders.com/Underwater-Defence-Security
TUESDAY 3rd MARCH PLENARY SESSION: INTERNATIONAL STRATEGY OVERVIEW “Accelerating capabilities ahead of near peer threats”
Progressive and unilateral national reductions in investment of underwater assets and capabilities have resulted in serious gaps and skill fade across NATO member’s capabilities. With an increase in the variety and number of underwater threats to lives, infrastructure and the environment, it is clear that controlling the underwater domain is now a resurging priority.
Underwater Defence & Security 2020 will provide the underwater community with a unique opportunity to understand rapidly evolving threats as well as future technologies and capabilities; acting as a platform for the international underwater community to analyse developments in emerging and traditional markets.
0800 – Registration 0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
EMERGING CHALLENGES IMPACTING UNDERWATER WARFARE Over the past 40 years, NATO have developed their submarine and aircraft carrier capabilities very significantly to gain major advantages over potential opponents in the maritime environment and project power with relative invulnerability. To counter these advantages, a number of nations have developed anti-access and area denial strategies. This opening conference session will discuss the emerging challenges to the Alliance and how this impacts underwater defence and security.
0900 – Opening Conference Keynote from the Second Sea Lord: The contemporary challenges facing the Royal Navy in the underwater environment • Overview of current challenges faced by the UK and her NATO allies • Anticipating the future and accelerating the UK’s capabilities • What industry and our allies can do to assist the Royal Navy in facing these challenges Vice Admiral Nick Hine CB, Second Sea Lord and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Royal Navy
0930 – How NATO’s future is being influenced by the current underwater challenges • Examining capabilities in ASW, MCM and Maritime Engagement • Challenges we face as a multi-national alliance and addressing these through targeted investment • Developing for the future: new programmes and NATO ‘cells’ to fill knowledge and capability gaps Rob Murray, Head of ISR, Land and Maritime: Defence Investment, NATO Headquarters
1000 – Assisting navies in ensuring UW protection during maritime security operations • Challenges in implementing new autonomous underwater technologies • Impacts of current operations on the future of the underwater battlespace • The role of industry in enhancing international partnerships and collaborative capability development
1030 – Morning coffee and networking
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NEW CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENTS TO MEET EMERGING THREATS Underwater assets frequently operate in an environment that tolerates little error and/or technical defect. R&D centres are locked in a race to match sensors and command and control systems with the capabilities of UW platforms to dominate the underwater environment and ensure operational readiness. This session will discuss new capability developments and how international navies are meeting emerging threats.
1115 – How the US Navy perceives future technology in the underwater domain • Understanding the issues of undersea warfare for the current war fighter • Current developments in USW & ASW in the US Navy • Perception of the future – The way ahead for the US Navy Rear Admiral Scott Robertson, Commander, US Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Command
1145 – The role of modular technology for countering future underwater threats • Combating future submarine threats with surface assets • Revolutionising towed sonar solutions for manned and unmanned surface assets • The role of TRAPS in developing ASW across a fleet: turning all surface ships into ASW capable assets
1215 –Developing Agile C2 for the UK MOD – Delivering a key aspect of the future force concept • Addressing the need for a C2 capability that can meet complex future conflict situations • Enhanced coordination between multi-domain assets to effectively connect strategy and action • The role of UK Defence Solutions Centre in developing agile C2 Andrew Cunningham, Executive Director Innovation, UK Defence solutions Centre
1245 – Lunch and networking
THE EMERGENCE OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE FUTURE OF UNDERWATER DEFENCE AND SECURITY With recent events shining the spotlight on Underwater defence and security activities and the plethora of platforms required to ensure a protective screen, this session will address how changes in tactics and emerging technologies can and will improve the performance of the modern fleet.
1415 – AI and autonomous technologies that will revolutionise underwater defence • How AI can revolutionise underwater defence • Understanding and dealing with ethical concerns regarding AI • Ensuring AI is used in the most efficient way Matteo Perrone, Project Manager R&D: Sub-Surface Warfare Weapon Systems, Procurement and Logistics Division, FMV Johan Wahren, Project Manager Sub-Surface Warfare Weapon Systems, Procurement and Logistics Division, FMV
1445 – The role of XL unmanned submersibles in the future of underwater warfare • Applicability of large unmanned submersibles in future warfare • View into the USN Knifefish programme and GD role in this • Self-protection considerations whilst on mission tasks and deployability from LCS General Dynamics Confirmed Representative
1515 – Keeping pace with emerging technologies: Issues of legality when operating autonomous systems • How the Navy Law department has to keep pace with capability developments • The San Remo manual and it’s application to unmanned and autonomous systems • Policy impacts and considerations in future operating environments Commander James Farrant, Senior Legal Adviser – International Law, Royal Navy
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1545 – Afternoon coffee and networking
UNDERWATER CONSIDERATIONS FOR FUTURE FLEETS With many countries upgrading their sub-surface capabilities both in open ocean and in the littoral. Whether underwater, surface or air platforms are used to achieve this, militaries are looking to focus their efforts on acquiring and sustaining an effective capability in ASW, MCM, Submarines and emerging areas like Unmanned and Autonomous systems. This final session of the day will both close the discussion and undoubtedly invigorate further debate in these areas.
1630 – How solution providers are preparing for future fleet expansion • Future procurement plans, naval expansion and how industry are meeting the challenge • Why now is the right time for large scale modernisation with underwater warfare at its’ core • Future technologies and shaping a relationship with governments
1700 – Panel discussion: How best to shape and control the future of UW warfare • Considering how threats dictate development • How the lessons learned throughout the day have impacted thinking on UW defence • Scientific considerations and developments in the sector • How industry can influence positive developments in this environment Chris Shepherd, Head of Maritime Capability, UK Defence solutions Centre
Nick Childs, Senior Fellow for Naval Forces & Maritime Security, International Institute of Strategic Studies
Dr Kevin LePage, Programme Manager for Autonomy for ASW, NATO CMRE
1800 – Closing panel remarks and Chairman’s summary Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
1805 – Networking and drinks reception
2000 – Exhibition setup
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WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM A: MINE COUNTERMEASURES – In Association with ECA Group
Our trusted partner for Mine Countermeasures
0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Captain (Retd) Jeroen Franken MSc, Former MCM Captain, Royal Netherlands Navy
CURRENT MCM CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENTS As unmanned technology develops, surface ships remain the stalwart of effective MCM. Fleets are striving to achieve multi mission ships, but at what cost? MCM specific skills are hard to develop and retain, and with several countries looking to upgrade their MCM surface fleets this session will explore some of the options available to upgrade legacy systems and acquire new ones.
0900 – ECA Group: Pushing forward mine countermeasure development • Developing the future Belgian/Netherlands naval mine warfare off board systems • Improving interoperability and maintaining synergy with mothership platforms • How we are developing autonomous and unmanned systems for the future Confirmed ECA Group Representative
0930 – Update on the Belgium/Netherlands MCM programme • Considerations during the contractor selection process • The start of the implementation process and opportunities for collaboration • The different technologies being used within the program that are shaping future MCM Captain Peter Degraer, Director of Naval Systems, Belgian Navy
1000 – Naval mine warfare requirements and platform concepts • Developments in automated UUV launch and recovery • UUVs that offer new operational concepts and enable accelerated MCM • Adoption of mid-sized UUVs to increase presence, precision and performance Gene Cum, Director - Littoral & Mine Warfare Systems, Northrop Grumman Corporation
1030 – Morning coffee and networking Hosted by ECA Group
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OPTIMISING THE MCM TOOLBOX THROUGH OPERATIONAL FEEDBACK With mine detection assets from many Fleets reaching the end of their service life, there has been a push to upgrade mine countermeasure (MCM) capabilities such as sonar, diving and unmanned vehicles. The challenge for capability managers is to establish whether specialist vessels or offboard systems are the best option for Navies looking to focus their efforts on acquiring and sustaining effective MCM. The first session will analyse recent exercises, operations and the impact on future developments.
1115 – Reviewing NATO’s MCM capabilities across exercises for constant improvement • Participating units and managing multi-national operational exercise • Enhancing the common training though manoeuvring exercises, communications and security drills • Implications for future operations and opportunity for 2020 participation Commander Axel Defays (BEL), Chief of Staff, NATO Naval Mine Warfare Centre of Excellence
1145 – Optimising communications for modern MCM operations • Cross-platform versatility and the importance of interoperable communications to MCM • How Radionor tactical radio allows for enhanced communication at sea • Promoting increased mobility and deployability through IP based radio systems Oystein Pedersen, Business Development Manager, Radionor Communications AS
1215 – Danish experience of operating in SNMCMG1 during recent deployments • Synergies between different systems and responding to the threat as a combined force • Experiences operating a modular unit with USVs in SNMCMG1 • General lessons learned operating and developing MCM DENMARK and Allied MCM Lieutenant Commander Andreas Johansen, Commanding Officer MCM Denmark, Royal Danish Navy
1245 – Lunch and networking
OFF BOARD SYSTEMS FOR MCM OPERATIONS UUVs offer the potential to increase the range of capabilities for MCM and provide early warning of a developing underwater threat. They also offer a compelling method of disarming/destroying mines covertly and at low risk to human life. This session looks at the current realities of UUVs and their utility, and at what technical solutions may exist to overcome some of the major challenges that they face.
1415 – Thoughts on the development of unmanned and autonomous systems for MCM • The question of manpower and keeping humans in the loop • Considering the philosophical aspects of operating unmanned systems against autonomous systems • How the approach of NATO will impact future use of off-board assets Lieutenant Commander Kevin Giles, Navy Ships MCM SO2, Royal Navy
1445 – Keeping unmanned MCM Fleets a step ahead of future forces • Current work in research and development of future MCM off-board systems • Focus on advanced sensors for surface MCM vessels • Unmanned and undersea and COTS based approach to MCM Captain (Retd USN) Eric Wirstrom, Senior Manager – US Government Business, Hydroid Inc
1515 – The increasing role of autonomy in MCM and the need for better industry collaboration • CMRE’s participation in Dynamic Mariner 2019 and impact of results • Demonstrations of collaborative autonomy with our 3 vehicles and a smart gateway • The need for more collaboration with industry and how CMRE will help facilitate Dr Samantha Dugelay, Programme Manager Autonomous Naval MCM, NATO CMRE
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1545 – Afternoon coffee and networking Hosted by FR Luerssen Werft GmbH & Co KG
SHAPING FUTURE PROGRAMMES AROUND EXPECTED THREATS The Underwater Defence & Security surface and subsurface community face a common threat that impacts all platforms: mines. These inexpensive, easily manufactured and easily laid devices can and do wreak havoc on Fleets. Yet there is a frightening lack of intelligence around their locations and how they are used. Considering these threats are time consuming and dangerous, and this session will examine some of the key issues in countering the mine threat and the impact on future fleets.
1630 – Impact of project Wilton on European defence and other future MCM programmes • Feedback on the recent testing phase on the Clyde • The role of industry participants in driving the development of next generation MCM • The planned use of the autonomous system for route survey and mine neutralisation Jared Pocock, Senior Project Manager: Mine countermeasures and Hydrographic Capability, UK MOD – DE&S
1700 – Remote mine classification from AUV platforms • Understanding search and destroy capabilities and amalgamating into one core unit • Achieving the correct balance of mine hunting vs mine clearing • Developments in new mines that could upset the balance Vegard Haugen, Master Mariner, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace
1730 – Chairman’s summary Captain (Retd) Jeroen Franken MSc, Former MCM Captain, Royal Netherlands Navy
1735 – Networking and drinks reception in exhibition room Hosted by TP Group PLC
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WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM B: SUBMARINES AND SUPPORTING PLATFORMS
0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Steve Brunton, Former Director Ship Acquisition, Royal Navy
NEXT GENERATION SUBMARINE PLATFORMS All users are keen to exploits the technology available to the community on board their submarines, and to use it both in training and on operations. Here we will explore some of the capabilities available, why they apply to the next generation of platforms and how countries are integrating it into their systems.
0900 – Delivering the UK’s submarines: The role of the SDA • Our current mission: working with Navy Command and the Defence Nuclear Organisation • Increasing UK submarine capacity through increased availability • Industrial relations and supply chain of delivering the UK’s submarines Rear Admiral Paul Methven, Director Submarine Acquisition, Submarine Delivery Agency
0930 – Combat management considerations during naval modernisations and new-build delivery • The importance of offering maximum adaptability, flexibility and modularity to new assets • Offering solutions that allow for modular upgrades and synching of submarines for different CONOPS • Continued advancements in technology and announcement of a new combat management system
1000 – Future strategy and delivery of the UK’s MUFC programme • Considerations for MUFC requirements • Update on the MUFC timeline and expectations • How solutions are being implemented by the SDA for the future Dr James Cowan, Head of MUFC Portfolio Delivery, Submarine Delivery Agency
1030 – Morning coffee and networking Hosted by BMT
INTERNATIONAL SUBMARINE PROGRAMMES With many countries upgrading their submarines, there has been a push to reinvigorate capabilities both in shallow and deep waters. Regardless of the platform used to achieve this, militaries are looking to focus their efforts on acquiring and sustaining an effective underwater deterrence and this session will outline some of the current projects.
1115 – The Brazilian navy’s strategic projects in the underwater domain: PROSUB programme • The unique challenges faced by the Brazilian Navy and designing a submarine to match • Upcoming underwater procurement projects and the place for industry to collaborate • Timeline for Brazilian Navy expansion to become an international navy and meet these threats Commander Christian Drummond Hingst, Submarine Force Command Operations Officer, Brazilian Navy
1145 – The role of shipyards in life extension programmes of submarines • The importance of including through life support in submarine programmes • Ensuring robustness and reliability of materials for demanding combat environments • Simple integration of new systems and upgrading capabilities
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1215 – Establishing a submarine force in South Asia: lessons for new and aspiring submarine operator • Ensuring multinational cooperation and information sharing • Ascertaining the current level of threat in the South China Sea and Malacca Strait • Future opportunities for close integration with industry and other naval powers First Admiral Baharuddin bin Wan Mohd Nor, Submarine Commander, Royal Malaysian Navy
1245 – Lunch and networking
ENSURING SUBMARINES CAN FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY AS A MULTI-STATIC ASSET For many operators, ensuring submarine interoperability and C4 with allies and other fleet vessels, is one of the most pivotal considerations for future capability. The use of enhanced C4 and drawing on other intelligence; such as, geospatial, can dramatically increase an assets effectiveness. This conference section will explore considerations for underwater interoperability and improved operation.
1415 – Overcoming underwater challenges in communications and interoperability • The main communication issues faced by an underwater team and EMS threat considerations • How to ensure robust communication defence in contested environments • The importance of communication range to operation effectiveness Commander Paul Dröge, Branch Head Underwater Warfare Technology, Netherlands DMO
1445 – Developing underwater communications to aid submarine operation • The importance of underwater communication and criticality to operation • Delivering a capability able to communicate effectively with allied assets • Factoring in differing CONOPS and requirements to maintain different, yet interoperable systems
1500 – How geospatial Intelligence from outside defence can supplement submarine operation • Briefing on recent research from the littoral zone and how this can be utilised by operators • How the institute is already assisting SAR efforts in South Africa thorough this crucial data • Future research considerations and exploring all aspects of the full water column Marc De Vos, Senior Scientist, South African Weather Service and National Sea Rescue Institute
1545 – Afternoon coffee and networking Hosted by FR Luerssen Werft GmbH & Co KG
SPECIAL OPERATION FORCES INTEGRATION For the first time and following significant audience feedback we are including a session dedicated to the delivery and recovery of SOF personnel, an increasingly important function of the modern day submarine but one which receives little attention.
1630 – Use of multi-mission bays aboard Swedish A26 submarines • Dry deck shelters and internal launch systems for submarines • Including SOF capabilities in submarine planning stages and developing multi-mission capabilities • Torpedo tube utilisation for delivery and recovery of assets Dr Fredrik Hellström, PhD, A26 Project Manager, FMV
1700 – Small manned submersibles for special ops • Submersible and semi-submersible assets and their importance in SOF • Diver delivery scooters and larger platforms for increased standoff range for submarines • Ability for delivery of small submersible through airdrop or torpedo tubes
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1730 – Chairman’s summary Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Steve Brunton, Former Director Ship Acquisition, Royal Navy
1735 – Networking and drinks reception in exhibition room Hosted by TP Group PLC
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WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM C: ANTI-SUBMARINE WARFARE 0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
THE IMPORTANCE OF SURFACE AND SUBMARINE FLEETS TO ASW Power projection from the sea is becoming increasingly important as nations seek to avoid embroilment on land and to neutralise asymmetric attackers. Maritime forces tasked with delivering such effects will require defence in all environments, and one of the most challenging is the submarine threat. The force protection required seeks to ensure such forces can detect and destroy the subsurface threat quickly and efficiently, and here we will dissect the essential components.
0900– Developing Peruvian submarine capacities in line with ASW necessities • The need for an effective submarine asset for ASW and how the modernisation will meet this • Update on the modernisation of the Type 209/1200 submarines • Ensuring efficient delivery of the Type 209/1200 and maintained synergy with NATO allies Rear Admiral Percy Pérez Bramosio, Commander Submarine Force, Peruvian Navy
0930 – Developing next generation systems to enhance ASW from Submarines and Surface vessels • Keeping submarines in the fight: anti-torpedo-torpedoes for defence whilst in the hunt • Developments in towed-array and hull mounted sonar to increase ASW capability • Training operators with accurate simulation that increases a fleet’s effectiveness
1000 – Accelerating ASW capabilities through developing Australia’s future ASW Frigate • The role of a future ASW frigate in RAN UWW capabilities • Tailoring our ASW Frigate to match our vastly differing operational environments • Overcoming RAN challenges and maintaining interoperability with other T-26 nations Captain Paul Mandziy, Director Military Strategic Analysis, Royal Australian Navy
1030 – Morning coffee and networking Hosted by ECA Group
ENABLING SMART ASW VIA UNMANNED OR AUTONOMOUS ASSETS A proliferation of underwater threats highlights the requirement for an increased focus on security and self- defence capabilities for UW, surface and air platforms. Several new programmes are phasing out organic ASW capabilities completely in favour of off board air/Ux sensors. This session will consider the contribution of new technology, its integration and fusion with current systems.
1115 – The UK’s ASW Spearhead: the future of UK ASW • Overview of the six current ASW Spearhead projects • Delivering ASW that goes beyond platform-centric traditions • The aims of ASW Spearhead: developing a battlespace of enhanced ASW Captain Hywel Griffiths, DACOS MARCAP UW, Royal Navy
1145 – ASW from an Autonomous Surface Vehicle • Why ASVs are a vital new tool for ASW • How L3 are leading the way in ASV technology • Future plans to work closer with navies to ensure greater efficiency Robert Beattie, Director of Business Development, L3 Technologies
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1215 – Development and experimentation of robotic ASW solutions • Developing cooperative and multi-static ASW through robotics and AI • Conducting area search and barrier missions through autonomous vehicles • Integrating conventional assets with heterogeneous networks of smart sensors Dr Kevin LePage, Programme Manager for Autonomy for ASW, NATO CMRE
1245 – Lunch and networking
FIXED WING DEVELOPMENTS AND IMPACT ON ASW The use of passive area searches have become increasingly ineffective as submarines become progressively quieter, thus aircraft play a bigger part in cueing onto intended targets. Furthermore, recent experience has shown that ASW is being conducted in shallow water zones close to enemy shores – the littoral. This session looks at the role of the multi-static solutions in a force ASW posture, the specific challenges posed in to aircraft and some of the potential solutions.
1415 – Development of sensors for new fixed wing platforms and how this is improving French ASW • Further developments in MAD and use in ASW currently • Combining sensor capabilities with new platform innovations for an overall more effective asset • Systems automation and workload reduction in fixed wing platforms Commander Jean-Baptiste Verwaerde, 21st Flotilla Commanding Officer, French Naval Aviation
1445 – Furthering the development of lightweight sonobuoys for deployment from FW platforms • Technological advancements that facilitate ASW capability • Enhanced deployability of sonobouys from new FW assets • The importance of a deployable low-risk asset in modern ASW Arthur Ackhurst, Engineering Manager, Ultra Electronics
1515 – Addressing the need for a smart torpedo: FMV developments in the Torpedo-47 programme • Enhancing Baltic cooperation: our understanding and future with Finland • Update on the current development phase and how the project is progressing • Future of the project and avenues for development: possible use from ASVs and MPAs Lieutenant Magnus Lind, Project Manager – Torpedo-47, FMV
1545 – Afternoon coffee and networking Hosted by FR Luerssen Werft GmbH & Co KG
MAXIMISING THE ROTARY WING ASW RESPONSE Manmade and natural interference creates a cluttered environment where enemy forces can easily conceal their position. Helicopters augment Naval armaments through precision and enabling fast attacks at distance, but it is best deployed alongside other assets. This section examines current technological developments and strategies that can improve the ability to maintain a dominant force posture using rotary assets.
1630– Protecting the carrier strike group: Merlin Helicopter Force recent experiences and future operation • Understanding the threat of submarines to the carrier group • Combating the threat, utilising a carrier’s aircraft to hunt and destroy underwater hostiles • Technological solutions to aid airborne ASW Lieutenant Commander Lauren Hulston, Merlin Helicopter Force Warfare Officer, Royal Navy
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1700 – Future ASW platforms – Improving mission capability through outstanding technology • A multi-role and modular asset, capable of outstanding ASW and naval warfighting • ASW operations utilising advanced mission systems and the future of MUMT • How industry is driving the development of improved Human Machine Interface
1730 – Chairman’s summary Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
1735 – Networking and drinks reception in exhibition room Hosted by TP Group PLC
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WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM D: ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS Please note: Round Table Sessions are closed-door, invite-only discussions. If you would like to be considered for a place on one of the tables, please contact Defence Leaders or the Table Host.
SUBMARINE ESCAPE AND RESCUE ROUND TABLE: Hosted by JFD 0900-1030 in the Richards and Greenwich Suite (Upper Ground Floor)
JFD is the world leading underwater capability provider, serving the commercial and defence markets with innovative diving, submarine and hyperbaric rescue, technical solutions and services.
Operating worldwide, the company is the world’s leading provider of submarine rescue capability and an established provider of submarine escape training. The company is at the forefront of Hyperbaric Rescue, along with being the leading supplier of commercial and defence diving equipment and saturation diving systems to the commercial industry.
The topic of the round table discussion will be: • Current challenges in the field of escape and rescue and suggested response • Solutions in the field and what operators need to complete these tasks • Promoting industry – military collaboration, future considerations and the way ahead
Limited to 15 participants per table.
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THURSDAY 5th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM A: PREPARING FORCES FOR UNDERWATER THREAT RESPONSE 0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Captain (Retd) Jeroen Franken MSc, Former MCM Captain, Royal Netherlands Navy
PREPARING FORCES TO FACE NEW UNDERWATER CHALLENGES With the increasing emphasis placed on MCM and submarines as tools for maintaining freedom of movement and protection of sea lines of communication; the development in methods and technologies is moving at an accelerated pace. Training must match the pace of development in order for navies to meet their operational requirements and utilise their new technologies effectively. This dedicated section of the conference agenda will address how navies and industry can meet the advancements in both MCM and submarine escape and rescue technology with effective training technologies and practices.
0900 – Preparing EGUERMIN for the new Belgium/Netherlands rMCM capabilities • The importance of training personnel before incorporating new assets into the fleet • Advanced simulations technology including augmented reality solutions • The need for advanced MCM training vessels both in-dock and while deployed Commander Christophe Muylaert, Director, EGUERMIN – Belgium and Netherlands Naval Mine Warfare School
0930 – Submarine rescue and MCM diver training: Exploring innovative systems to enhance mission effectiveness • Experiences of sub rescue from around the world and feedback on shared challenges • Increasing survivability throughout the submarine rescue phase and familiarities with diving • MCM diving systems that provide enhanced confidence for UW operations JFD Representative
1000 – Updating nations on the NATO submarine rescue programme and impact on crew procedures • Training with new technology to ascertain effectiveness • Maintaining a shared approach to submarine safety that incorporates allied and industry input • Evaluating safety through strenuous testing and further opportunities for combined evaluation Commander Gennaro Vitagliano ITN, Branch Head of International Submarine Escape and Rescue liaison Office, NATO SUBCOM – MARCOM HQ
1030 – Morning coffee and networking Hosted by BMT
FINDING THE EDGE FOR ENHANCED ANTI SUBMARINE WARFARE Submarine platforms are locked in a constant race with ASW technology, and the use of air independent propulsion has tipped the balance in favour of submarines. Recent events have highlighted the need for international co-operation, and this session will identify the training activities and technology that give an edge in ASW.
1115 – Matching real world mission parameters to training exercises • Creating a battlefield environment in training missions • Training with multinational partners to ensure interoperability • How training can be advanced to match real world scenarios and threat perception Lieutenant Commander Paulstephen Chierico, Ocean Systems Integrated Product Team Lead, US NAVAIR
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1145 – Training for the hunt - utilising unmanned assets for efficient training • Implementing the wide spectrum of unmanned tools available for training purposes • How unmanned underwater assets provide ASW training for submarines, surface vessels and air units • Creating the most realistic possible scenarios for ASW training and applying this environmentally Thomas Petersson, Product Manager, Saab Dynamics AB
1215 – Preparing the future ASW Warfighter: training for multi-static ASW • How we use operational feedback to improve our training simulators and aids • Collaborating with the Royal Navy to deliver excellent training solutions • The role of academia in assisting industry and Naval advancement Pippa Bostock, Collaboration Manager, University of Portsmouth
1245 – Lunch and networking
Conference continued in Ballroom 3 (please see agenda page 21)
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THURSDAY 5th MARCH “The future of full-spectrum underwater warfare”
STREAM B: UNMANNED AND AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS IN THE UNDERWATER DOMAIN 0855 – Chairman’s opening remarks Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
DEVELOPMENTS IN UNDERWATER UNMANNED SOLUTIONS As nations aim to acquire both standoff and organic capabilities, underwater unmanned solutions have become the critical asset during a time of changing priorities. They can provide almost constant deterrence via greater range, speed and accuracy when providing surveillance to various Naval missions. This session will examine how UxV can continue to surveillance. It aims to identify potential improvements in current capabilities, particularly from relevant industry fields and what transitions are necessary for the future.
0900 –– Developments in the NATO maritime unmanned systems initiative • Promoting more interoperable and flexible unmanned systems • The advantages of an allied initiative and the role NATO play in pushing this forward • Signing the Memorandum of Understanding and the next steps for MUS in the coming years Commander Ian Danbury RN, Deputy Head Maritime Unmanned Systems Innovation and Coordination Cell, NATO Headquarters
0930 – The role of UXVs in modern navies and how to adapt your force to meet • The variety of roles that UXVs play in underwater defence • What we can learn from UXVs in other sectors that will supplement naval knowledge • The correct way to implement this technology through testing, evaluation and integration
1000 – Application of unmanned systems for multi-static sensor broadening • Introduction of unmanned systems to all areas of naval warfighting • Use of unmanned assets as a sensor network and a system of systems • Current research into application of larger unmanned systems and introduction of autonomy Matteo Perrone, Project Manager R&D: Sub-Surface Warfare Weapon Systems, Procurement and Logistics Division, FMV Johan Wahren, Project Manager Sub-Surface Warfare Weapon Systems, Procurement and Logistics Division, FMV
1030 – Morning coffee and networking Hosted by BMT
THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS TO THE FUTURE WARFIGHTER UUVs offer the potential to increase the range of capabilities for ASW and provide early warning of a developing underwater threat. They also offer a compelling method of delivering weapons onto targets covertly and at low risk to human life. This session looks at the current realities of UUVs and their utility, and at what technical solutions may exist to overcome some of the major challenges that they face.
1115 – Planning for and feedback from the use of autonomous systems in NATO EX Dynamic Mariner 2019 • Demonstrating collaborative autonomy via operational experimentation • Feedback from participants and considerations for future testing • Continued use of NATO exercises to enhance knowledge and industry involvement in CMRE projects
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Thomas Furfaro, Scientist – Autonomy, NATO CMRE
1145 – Use of unmanned and autonomous platforms to enhance maritime situational awareness • How unmanned platforms can be used as the first line of defence • Broadening sensor capabilities through deployment of unmanned assets • Solutions for passive situational awareness broadening such as sensor nets and buoys Valentin Hanns, Director of Sales, Teledyne Marine
1215 – How FRONTEX supplement naval reconnaissance through unmanned surveillance • What navies can learn from coast and border guard operations • How FRONTEX perform aerial surveillance missions to enhance SAR and policing • Sharing information, assets and technology between civilian and military bodies Tuukka Höijer, Senior Coordinating Officer – Team Leader (Sea), FRONTEX
1245 – Lunch and networking
Conference continued in Ballroom 3 (please see agenda page 21)
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PLENARY CONFERENCE – CLOSING SESSION: BALLROOM 3
THE FUTURE OF UNDERWATER DEFENCE AND SECURITY
1415 – Closing conference Keynote from The First Sea Lord: The Future of the UK’s underwater defence
• How the Royal Navy are leading the way in future underwater development • The importance of cooperation within NATO and beyond the alliance • The future of underwater defence and how we can prepare together First Sea Lord Admiral Tony Radakin CB ADC, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, Royal Navy
1445 – Closing conference panel: Lessons learnt from UDS 2020 and applying these to the future of underwater defence and security • Promoting more cooperation between nations and industry • Considerations for future technologies and opportunities • Preparing our future forces to meet these challenges • How can we use UDS2020 as a springboard to enhance the future of underwater defence? Commander S.G. Pascale Van Leeuwen (BEL), Head of MOST, STC-MOST & Belgian Navy
Thomas Furfaro, Scientist – Autonomy, NATO Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation
Matteo Perrone, Project Manager R&D: Sub-Surface Warfare Weapon Systems, Procurement and Logistics Division, FMV
Commander Paul Dröge, Branch Head Underwater Warfare Technology, Netherlands DMO
1545 – Chairman’s summary and close of conference Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Duncan Potts CB, Former Commander UK Maritime Forces, Royal Navy
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