Welcome Messages

The safety and security of the oceans in the Indo-Pacific and the sea lines of communication treading through Southeast Asia’s maritime spaces remain pivotal to the region’s continued peace, stability and prosperity. As we gather here in 2025, the challenges we face at sea have grown more complex and acute.

To confront these realities, the International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC) brings together top thinkers and practitioners to share and assess developments in the maritime domain, to engender greater trust between friends and partners. It is only through partnerships— both old and new—that we can rise to meet the threats that transcend borders and jurisdictions towards lasting stability at sea.

RSIS seeks to develop thought leadership and strategic thinking on issues related to peace and stability, and the ramifications for the maritime domain. We are proud to co-host IMSC 2025 with the Republic of Singapore Navy, and we welcome all delegates and participants to Singapore, to partake in fruitful exchanges and mutual learning at IMSC 2025 and IMDEX Asia.

Building on what we have achieved in previous iterations of this conference, we are pleased to welcome more representatives from the respective coast guards and enforcement agencies of participating countries. We have also expanded our range of events to include a workshop in partnership with King’s College London. We hope such efforts will enrich everyone’s experiences and conversations here at IMSC 2025 and IMDEX Asia.

Our warmest welcome to all delegates and participants, and we invite you to engage deeply in the discussions to come. This gathering will be a wellspring of fresh ideas, enduring partnerships, and strengthened collective resolve towards achieving “Safe and Secure Seas”. Thank you for being part of this multilateral effort.

Welcome to IMDEX Asia 2025.

As we convene for the 14th edition of IMDEX Asia, Asia-Pacific's premier maritime defence and security event, we find ourselves amidst a dynamic and evolving global landscape. The maritime domain is experiencing unprecedented transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements, shifting geopolitical dynamics and a renewed emphasis on strategic collaboration.

Reflecting this momentum, global investment in research and development is reaching record highs, with 2024 spending projected at approximately USD 2.53 trillion - an 8.3% increase from the previous year according to R&D World. This surge is particularly evident in the Asia-Pacific, where nations are accelerating their research and development capabilities to drive progress in defence and technology. This regional commitment highlights the growing importance of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, which are poised to redefine the future of naval operations.

We are also proud to support the next generation of maritime professionals through our Maritime Campus initiative, engaging six tertiary institutions and spotlighting forward-looking naval projects, including a pioneering human-powered submarine.

On behalf of Experia Events, I extend our deepest appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, delegates, exhibitors and attendees. Your continued support ensures that IMDEX Asia remains at the forefront of maritime innovation and collaboration.

We look forward to a productive and inspiring experience at IMDEX Asia 2025.

Hello and welcome to IMDEX Asia 2025!

IMDEX Asia returns for its 14th edition as the region’s foremost gathering for the naval and maritime defence community.

Amid rapid advancements in naval technology, IMDEX Asia 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. With a strong focus on AI, autonomy and uncrewed systems, this edition reflects the sector’s accelerating push toward digital transformation, multi-domain integration and smarter defence capabilities.

Across three dynamic days, IMDEX Asia 2025 brings together 56 global delegations, including 43 Navy Chiefs, Coast Guard Directors and Heads of Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies from more than 35 countries. The event continues to offer a diverse warship display, with 17 vessels from 13 countries, offering a rare insight into real-world interoperability and maritime deterrence.

Beyond the exhibition with 230 participating companies from 26 countries and regions, we will also be putting the spotlight on emerging technologies and nurturing the next generation of maritime talents. In our What’s Next start-ups zone, revolutionary ideas from innovation start-ups will take centre stage while at our Maritime Campus, students will be reimagining tomorrow’s naval solutions. This year, our Maritime Campus returns with stronger student participation from six Institutes of Higher Learning – a vital step in nurturing the next generation of maritime leaders. 

Thank you for being part of this meaningful journey at IMDEX Asia 2025. Together, let’s chart a safer, smarter maritime future.