MS&D 2026 is the International Conference & Expo on Maritime Security & Defence, held as part of SMM in Hamburg from 1–4 September 2026. It brings together high-level decision-makers from politics, navies, and industry to address critical challenges including hybrid threats, protection of critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, underwater technologies, and unmanned systems. The event features a dedicated expo in Hall B8 (approx. 3,000 sqm) and a conference on 3–4 September, uniting naval and dual-use technology providers with international delegations and procurement authorities.
Dates
3–4 Sep 2026
City / country
Hamburg, Germany
Venue
Hamburg Messe und Congress
Time
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at MS&D 2026 include 2M KABLO, 3e Marine Solutions Co., Ltd., 3R solutions GmbH, 42com and 7deniz bas. Yay.Rek.Dan.Tur ve Org.
Event overview
MS&D – International Conference & Expo on Maritime Security & Defence takes place from 1 to 4 September 2026 as part of SMM, the world's leading maritime trade fair, at Hamburg Messe und Congress- - 1 . The 2026 edition significantly expands the format: Hall B8 serves as the naval hub, integrating expo, conference, and the central Naval Stage under one roof- 1 . The MS&D Expo runs throughout the full exhibition period, showcasing technologies for maritime security and defence- 1 . The MS&D Conference occurs on 3 and 4 September on the Naval Stage, featuring moderated expert panels and keynote addresses- 1 - 5 .
The conference theme is 'Maritime Security & Defence in a Rapidly Changing World'- 1 - 5 . Key topics include Europe's maritime capabilities, maritime warfare requirements, the underwater domain, IT/cyber/space aspects of maritime security, and manned/unmanned systems- 1 - 2 . Confirmed keynote speakers are Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki (Germany's National Armaments Director) and Vice Admiral Axel Deertz (Deputy Inspector of the Navy and Commander of the Fleet)- 1 . The conference is organised with the German Maritime Institute (DMI), Mittler Report, and the German Navy Command- 1 .
The expo covers approximately 3,000 square metres and focuses on cybersecurity, unmanned systems, dual-use technologies, maritime surveillance, and protection of critical infrastructure- 1 . The event is part of a joint platform that also includes SMM and ALL ABOUT PORTS, addressing efficiency, innovation, resilience, and port development- 2 .
TL;DR
MS&D 2026 offers a unique opportunity to engage with the entire maritime security and defence ecosystem in one dedicated hub. Visitors can attend the two-day conference on 3–4 September to hear from top naval and procurement leaders, including Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki and Vice Admiral Axel Deertz, on critical topics such as hybrid threats, cyber defence, and unmanned systems- 1 - 2 . The expo in Hall B8 showcases cutting-edge dual-use technologies, cybersecurity solutions, and maritime surveillance systems from over 2,200 SMM exhibitors- 1 . The integration of the Naval Stage, exhibition, and conference creates a central meeting point for international delegations, navies, and industry, facilitating direct dialogue and partnership building- 1 . As maritime security becomes a strategic factor for shipping, ports, and global supply chains, MS&D provides the intelligence and connections needed to navigate this rapidly changing landscape- 2 .
Exhibiting at MS&D 2026 places your company at the heart of Europe's leading maritime security and defence platform, co-located with SMM – the world's largest maritime trade fair- . The dedicated MS&D Expo in Hall B8 offers approximately 3,000 square metres of exhibition space, attracting high-level decision-makers from navies, defence ministries, procurement authorities, and industry- 1 . Exhibitors gain direct access to international delegations – in 2024, 29 delegations from navies, coast guards, and procurement organisations attended- 1 - 6 . The expo focuses on key growth areas including cybersecurity, unmanned systems, dual-use technologies, maritime surveillance, and critical infrastructure protection- 1 . The close integration with the conference and Naval Stage ensures maximum visibility and networking opportunities, positioning your brand as a key player in the naval and dual-use technology sector- 1 .
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
1Messeplatz 1, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
Entrances & gates
East Entrance
12-minute walk from Dammtor station (S2, S5)- 51 .
Central Entrance
6-minute walk from Messehallen station (U2)- 51 .
South Entrance
2-minute walk from Messehallen station (U2)- 51 .
West Entrance
5-minute walk from Sternschanze station (S2, S5, U3)- 51 .
Floor plans & maps
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Hamburg Messe has around 3,500 parking spaces on the exhibition grounds, but parking can be scarce during SMM- 30 . Available facilities include: Bei den Kirchhöfen (entrance B5): €2/hour, max €16/day, 880 spaces, height 2.10m- 30 ; Lagerstraße: €2/hour, max €16/day, 900 spaces- 30 ; Tiergartenstr.: €3/hour, max €25/day, 700 spaces- 30 . Electric charging stations are available in various car parks- 30 .
Attend
Event days & opening times
4-Day Ticket
Valid from 10:00 for entry on all days of the trade fair (1–4 September).
1-Day Ticket (Tue/Wed/Thu)
Valid from 10:00 for a single entry on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday (1–3 September).
Friday Ticket
Valid from 10:00 on Friday, 4 September.
1-Day Ticket (reduced)
Reduced price for pupils, students, trainees, accompanying teachers, and severely disabled people. Valid for Tuesday or Wednesday (1–2 September). Authorization required.
2-Day Ticket (free)
Free of charge for Thursday and Friday (3–4 September).
Ticket info
Badge collection
Tickets purchased online can be printed or shown on a mobile device; authorization for reduced prices must be presented on site.
Ticket notes
All tickets include return travel on Hamburg public transport (HVV) in second class. A 2-Day Ticket for Thursday and Friday is free of charge.
Who runs the show
Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH
Organiser and venue operator
German Maritime Institute (DMI)
Conference co-organiser
Mittler Report
Conference co-organiser (specialist media)
German Navy Command (Marinekommando)
Conference co-organiser
Cerstin Probst
Visitor Delegation Contact
Lisa Ludwiczak
Naval Delegation Contact
Claus Ulrich Selbach
Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy
What's on
3
Keynote
2
Panel
2
Event days
TBA
Typical time
Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki
Director General for Equipment (National Armaments Director) @ German Federal Ministry of Defence
Procurement priorities at national and European level
Vice Admiral Axel Deertz
Deputy Inspector of the German Navy and Commander of the German Fleet @ German Navy
Requirements of modern naval warfare, impact of hybrid threats
Giovanni Cremonini
Head of Maritime Security @ European External Action Service
Europe's maritime capabilities and security of global trade routes
Irina Haesler
Member of the Executive Board and Head of the Brussels Office @ German Shipowners' Association (VDR)
Shipping, free trade, and security
Malte Kutscher
ELAC Sonar
Underwater technologies, potential and operational applications
Dr. Moritz Lehmann
Senior Oceanographer @ Starboard Intelligence
Monitoring maritime activities
Prof. May-Britt Stumbaum
George C. Marshall Center for Security Studies
Moderator: Underwater technologies discussion
Rear Admiral (ret.) Karsten Schneider
President of the German Maritime Institute and Programme Director of the MS&D Conference @ German Maritime Institute (DMI)
Maritime security and defence dialogue
Claus Ulrich Selbach
Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy @ Hamburg Messe und Congress
Maritime security as a strategic factor for industry
Thursday, Sep 3, 2026
Opening Keynote: Europe's Maritime Capabilities and Security of Global Trade Routes
Keynote: Modern Naval Warfare and Hybrid Threats
Panel: Underwater Technologies – Potential and Operational Applications
Friday, Sep 4, 2026
Opening Keynote: Procurement Priorities at National and European Level
Panel: Manned and Unmanned Systems – Dual-Use Technologies
SMM 2026 (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology trade fair)
ALL ABOUT PORTS
Global Maritime Environmental Congress (gmec)
TradeWinds Shipowners Forum
Maritime Future Summit
Offshore Dialogue
Exhibitor Innovation Stage presentations
Energy Efficiency Hub sessions
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026
MS&D 2026 is part of SMM 2026. Official exhibitor and visitor counts are not yet published. SMM 2024 attracted 2,200+ exhibitors and 48,000+ visitors across 90,000 sqm.
Visitors
48,000
Exhibitors
2,200
Floor area (sqm)
90,000
Exhibitor countries
100
Visitor countries
100
Growth over time
New this edition
Integrated Naval Hub in Hall B8
For 2026, MS&D is expanded into a combined expo and conference in Hall B8, integrating the exhibition, the Naval Stage, and the conference into a single naval hub. The expo runs the full four days of SMM (1–4 September) and covers approximately 3,000 sqm, showcasing naval and dual-use technologies.
SourceExtended Expo Duration
Previously a standalone two-day conference, MS&D 2026 keeps the exhibition presence active throughout the entire SMM exhibition period (1–4 September), rather than confining defence discussions to a two-day window.
SourceTestimonials
SMM is always a highlight for us - the sheer size of the event is incredible. This year, we're excited to showcase our key solutions for decarbonisation, with electrification playing a central role.
SMM has returned from the challenges of the Covid period with full strength. The market is moving again, and demand is enormous. I cannot recall a single SMM where the first day of the fair alone was so successful.
At StMM, I can discuss key topics with decision-makers from a wide range of maritime companies within a very short period of time - I am glad this trade fair exists.
Next edition outlook
2026-09-01 – 2026-09-04MS&D 2026 expands significantly: it becomes a combined expo and conference in Hall B8, with the expo running all four days of SMM (1–4 September)- . The conference takes place on 3–4 September. This marks a shift from a two-day conference to a full integrated naval hub, reflecting growing demand for maritime security and defence solutions.
Dedicated MS&D Expo in Hall B8, running the full four days of SMM Integration of exhibition, conference, and Naval Stage in one hall Expanded floor area for naval and dual-use technology exhibitors New Dual-Use Tech Newcomer Zone and start-up speaker sessions Increased participation from international naval delegations and procurement agencies
Impact
MS&D 2024 established a new partnership with the German Maritime Institute (DMI), which shaped the agenda and raised the conference's profile- 6 . It successfully brought together naval delegations, industry, and dual-use technology providers against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions- 2 . The conference reinforced the importance of maritime security as a strategic factor and set the stage for the expanded 2026 edition.
Audience quality
MS&D 2024 attracted high-ranking naval delegations, defence procurement officials, and industry leaders from the naval and dual-use technology sectors- 2 - 6 . The conference provided a platform for direct dialogue between navies and suppliers- 6 . It was part of SMM, which draws over 48,000 participants from more than 100 countries, with a high proportion of decision-makers- 30 .
Exhibitor outcomes
While MS&D 2024 was a conference-only format (no dedicated expo), it offered exhibitors visibility through the SMM 'Security & Defence Route' and access to naval delegations- 2 - 6 . More than 200 providers of maritime dual-use technologies engaged with the 29 delegations- . The event enabled networking with key buyers and partners in a focused, high-level environment- 6 .
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
MS&D 2026 matters because it directly addresses the convergence of geopolitical pressure, technological disruption, and industrial capacity that is reshaping maritime security.- 2 With naval spending accelerating across Europe and beyond, the event provides a critical interface between procurement authorities, shipyards, systems integrators, and dual-use technology suppliers.- 1 The expansion of MS&D into a full four-day expo within SMM's vast industrial ecosystem means that defence discussions are no longer isolated but are embedded in the commercial maritime supply chain, accelerating technology transfer and partnership formation.- 1 As maritime security becomes a strategic factor for global trade, energy supply, and critical infrastructure, MS&D 2026 offers the intelligence, networks, and solutions needed to navigate this rapidly changing landscape.- 10
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Geopolitical Tensions Driving Naval Spending
Numerous countries are investing in the expansion of their naval capabilities, unmanned systems, and the protection of critical infrastructure.- 10 - The global maritime security market is estimated to grow from USD 28.72 billion in 2026 to USD 47.65 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 7.5%. The conference theme, 'Maritime Security & Defence in a Rapidly Changing World', reflects the pressure points shaping European naval spending.- 1
SourceIntegration of Cyber, Space, and Underwater Domains
Maritime security is expanding beyond traditional naval warfare to include IT, cyber, space-based assets, and the underwater domain.- - 1 The MS&D 2026 agenda explicitly covers IT, cyber, and space aspects of maritime security, alongside underwater technologies and sensor systems.- 6
SourceMaritime Security as a Strategic Factor for Global Supply Chains
Maritime security is increasingly becoming a strategic factor for the competitiveness and resilience of shipping, ports, and global supply chains.- 10 - The importance now extends far beyond the security domain itself, affecting trade, energy supply, ports, and critical infrastructure.- 10
SourceGrowth in Dual-Use and Autonomous Technologies
Dual-use technologies are playing an increasingly central role for military applications.- 6 The market for autonomous naval vessels is projected to grow to $2.4 billion, driven by demand for unmanned maritime surveillance platforms. Hamburg is emerging as a leading test and technology centre for unmanned and autonomous maritime systems.
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
MS&D 2026 is one of several key international events focusing on naval defence, maritime security, and dual-use technologies. The circuit spans Europe, Asia, and North America, with events ranging from large biennial defence exhibitions to specialised conferences on underwater technology and regional security. MS&D's unique value lies in its integration with SMM, the world's largest commercial maritime trade fair, bridging naval procurement with the broader shipbuilding and marine technology supply chain.
UDT 2026 (Undersea Defence Technology)
London, United Kingdom
Multi-faceted three-day exhibition and conference bringing together key stakeholders from across Europe and beyond.-
websiteIMDEX Asia 2026
Singapore, Singapore
Held at Changi Exhibition Centre, attracting global naval delegations and industry.-
websiteCombined Naval Event (CNE) 2026
Farnborough, United Kingdom
Unites industry experts to discuss naval defence; held at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.-
websiteFleet 2026
Kronstadt, Russia
Showcases unmanned boats, counter-drone systems, and other naval technologies.-
SMM / MS&D 2026
Hamburg, Germany
MS&D Conference on 3–4 September; Hall B8 Naval Hub with 50+ naval exhibitors and 150+ dual-use technology providers.- 29
websiteMSPO 2026
Kielce, Poland
One of Europe's largest defence exhibitions with naval and maritime security components.-
websiteEURONAVAL 2026
Paris, France
Biennial event at Paris Nord Villepinte; 30th edition in 2026.-
websiteDSEI Germany 2027
Hannover, Germany
Backed by German MoD and industry; debut edition in 2027.-
websiteDSEI UK 2027
London, United Kingdom
Follows record-breaking 2025 event with 1,700+ exhibitors from 62 countries.-
websiteSpring 2026 Naval Events
Concentrated period for underwater defence, Asia-Pacific naval, and European annual naval events.
Autumn 2026 European Defence Season
Peak European defence exhibition period; MS&D serves as the maritime security anchor within SMM.
2027 Major Defence Events
Key biennial and new defence events; MS&D will be positioned between these cycles.
Event dates and details compiled from official event websites and industry sources. MS&D's integration with SMM distinguishes it from purely defence-focused events.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Hamburg Airport (HAM)
Around 60 airlines offer direct flights from and to Hamburg Airport, making Hamburg accessible from approximately 130 national and international cities and more than 40 countries without changing planes- 2 . The SMM Airport Shuttle operates between the airport and the exhibition centre (West Entrance) for €10 per journey- 1 . Public transport takes about 30 minutes- 1 .
Approximately 10 km
to venue
About 20 minutes by taxi
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 80–120 / night
Examples: Ibis Budget Hamburg St Pauli Messe. Within 2 km radius of the venue there are 10,000 hotel rooms of all categories- - 11 .
USD 150–250 / night
Examples: IntercityHotel Hamburg Dammtor (50m from Messe). Within 2 km radius of the venue there are 10,000 hotel rooms of all categories- - 11 .
USD 280–400 / night
Hotels near the Alster lakes or city centre, with easy access to public transport. Within 2 km radius of the venue there are 10,000 hotel rooms of all categories- - 11 .
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
S-Bahn (suburban train) / U-Bahn (underground)
Three S-Bahn/U-Bahn stations within walking distance: Dammtor (S2, S5) – East Entrance (12 min); Sternschanze (S2, S5, U3) – Central/West Entrance (5 min); Messehallen (U2) – South/Central Entrance (2–5 min); Stephansplatz (U1) – East Entrance (11 min)- 3 - 12 . HVV app offers timetable, routing, and ticket purchase- 3 .
SMM Airport Shuttle
Official event shuttle service- - 4 .
Taxi / Ride-hailing
Journey takes about 20 minutes- - 19 . Uber, FreeNow, and Moia also operate in Hamburg- 19 .
Bus
Part of the HVV network; online visitor tickets include free travel- 1 .
Parking (on-site)
Facilities: Bei den Kirchhöfen (B5) – €2/h, max €16/day, 880 spaces, height 2.10m- 2 ; Lagerstraße – €2/h, max €16/day, 900 spaces- 2 ; Tiergartenstr. – €3/h, max €25/day, 700 spaces, height 1.90m- 2 . 126 EV charging stations at four locations- 4 . Park+Ride recommended due to limited availability- 2 .
Parking (off-site / Park+Ride)
Over 122 S-Bahn/U-Bahn and DB regional stops with Park+Ride services- . Recommended for visitors from outside Hamburg- 2 .
Bicycle
Hamburg is bike-friendly; bike rental services (e.g., StadtRAD) available throughout the city.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen Business Visa (short-stay) | Nationals of countries without a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, travelling for business purposes including trade fair participation, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period- | $95.00 | 15 calendar days (standard) from when the application is accepted by the consulate- ; allow additional time for appointment scheduling and passport return- |
Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries do not require a visa for short business stays (up to 90 days). Check the official German Visa Navigator for the complete and current list- .
Germany accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary duty-free import of trade fair and exhibition goods, professional equipment, and commercial samples- 30 . Carnets are issued exclusively by German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs)- 30 and are valid in over 70 countries- 31 . As of 1 June 2026, a fully digital Carnet process is being introduced for Switzerland, Norway, and the UK, with other countries to follow- 31 . Exhibitors should check with their national chamber for Carnet issuance and specific customs requirements.
Official visa pageWeather
Hamburg in early September typically experiences mild temperatures with average highs around 18–20°C and lows around 10–12°C- . The average temperature in Hamburg in September is around 13.7°C- . September brings notable rainfall, with an average of around 16 rainy days and total precipitation of about 75.9 mm- . Packing a light jacket and umbrella is recommended.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire exhibition grounds for visitors- 6 - 14 . The SMM app and online exhibitor directory provide digital tools for navigation and lead management. The new event and networking platform SMM Connect complements the physical trade fair with digital features, making preparation, organization, and follow-up more efficient- 3 .
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business Culture and Etiquette
German business culture is formal and structured. Punctuality is highly valued; it is considered rude to be late- . Handshakes are common at the beginning and end of meetings- . Dress conservatively- . Business cards are exchanged with a brief introduction. English is widely spoken, but learning a few German phrases is appreciated. Use the formal 'Sie' when addressing colleagues unless invited to use 'Du'- . Private topics are usually avoided; discussing personal income is a no-go- . It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and cafés- .
Local Attractions and Dining
Hamburg offers a rich cultural scene. The Speicherstadt (historic warehouse district) and the Elbphilharmonie concert hall are must-sees. The Schanzenviertel district near the venue is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and international cuisine. Traditional dishes include Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich) and Labskaus (a sailor's stew). The Reeperbahn is famous for nightlife. Within a radius of 2 km from the venue, there are 10,000 hotel rooms of all categories, 1,000 restaurants and bars, and 100 musicals, theaters and museums- 1 .
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Hamburg Airport (HAM)
Around 60 airlines offer direct flights from approximately 130 national and international cities and more than 40 countries- 2 . A partnership with the Lufthansa Group airlines (Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, Edelweiss, Discover) provides access to discounted fares, with flexible travel up to one week before and one week after the event- 2 .
Book flightsAn invitation letter from the trade fair organiser is no longer mandatory for a trade fair visa- - 39 . Exhibitors may submit an Exhibitor Acceptance Form issued by the trade fair company- 39 . The organiser will still issue an invitation letter upon request- 40 . All applicants must check specific requirements with their local German embassy or consulate- 1 .
Processing: 15 calendar days (standard) from application acceptance; allow additional time for appointment and passport return-
The AUMA (Association of the German Trade Fair Industry) provides country-specific visa information- 39 . Visitors are advised to contact the embassy or consulate in good time- 1 . Required documents must be submitted completely- 1 .
OfficialPartnerFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
31 August 2026 (1 day before event start)
Check-out (recommended)
5 September 2026 (1 day after event end)
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: From Hamburg Airport (HAM) to the exhibition centre: 20 minutes by taxi (approx. €30–35)- , 30 minutes by public transport (S-Bahn S1 to Hauptbahnhof, then S2/S5 to Dammtor)- , or 10 EUR via SMM Airport Shuttle to West Entrance- .
Hotel → venue: Many hotels within walking distance (2 km radius: 10,000 hotel rooms)- - 11 ; use public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus) or taxi.
Ride-hail: Uber, FreeNow, and Moia operate in Hamburg; typical fare from city centre to venue approx. €10–€15.
Public transit: S-Bahn (S2/S5 to Dammtor, S1/S11/S21/S31 to Sternschanze Messe)- ; U-Bahn (U2 to Messehallen)- ; bus lines 105, 4, 20, 25. Every SMM visitor ticket purchased online includes a return journey on HVV public transport (A-F rings) in second class- .
Parking: Hamburg Messe has around 3,500 parking spaces. Parking facilities: Bei den Kirchhöfen (€2/hour, max €16/day, 880 spaces, height 2.10m); Lagerstraße (€2/hour, max €16/day, 900 spaces); Tiergartenstr. (€3/hour, max €25/day, 700 spaces, height 1.90m). 126 charging stations for e-vehicles are available- . Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or Park+Ride services- .
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: September
Temperature: 10°C – 20°C (50°F – 68°F)
Seasonality: September brings notable rainfall, with an average of around 16 rainy days and total precipitation of about 75.9 mm- .
Packing: Pack layers: light clothing for daytime, a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Bring an umbrella or waterproof jacket for possible rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the large exhibition grounds.
Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.
Add side trips
Default day plan
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Wednesday or Thursday
Wednesday and Thursday (2–3 September) are the core days of the exhibition, with the highest number of exhibitors and attendees. The MS&D Conference takes place on 3–4 September, making Thursday particularly relevant for defence and security professionals. Tuesday (1 September) is the opening day, which can be busy but offers the first chance to see new products. Friday (4 September) is a shorter day (10:00–16:00)- 28 and may be quieter, but still offers opportunities for last-minute meetings.
Confirm booth size, location, and all supplier deadlines; review the event profile and industry focus. — Review the Specific Terms of Participation (BTB) and Technical Regulations (TR) of Hamburg Messe und Congress.-
Build a pre-show outreach list; include current customers and target accounts. Launch a pre-show outreach campaign offering appointment booking.- — Create a content strategy outlining ideal target audience, pain points, and content types.-
Design booth graphics, plan pre-show promotion activities, partner co-marketing, and social media plan.- — Create a 'We're Going' graphic and use the event hashtag.-
Register co-exhibitors (must be registered and require permission from Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH).- — Ensure all co-exhibitors are properly registered.
Finalise stand construction plans and submit approval forms; order technical services (electricity, internet, etc.). — Service orders can be placed via the Online Service Center (OSC).-
Ship materials and products to the venue; confirm delivery and handling with official freight handler. — Hamburg Messe is not authorised to accept or confirm receipt of exhibits or deliveries.-
Set up stand; conduct final walkthrough and test all equipment. — Stand construction must comply with the Technical Regulations.-
Arrive at venue, collect badge, and plan the day using the SMM app or Visitor Guide.
Entrance foyerVisit the Naval Hall (B8) to explore the MS&D Expo and attend the opening of the Naval Stage conference.
Hall B8Walk the themed routes (e.g., Security & Defence, Digital) to discover relevant exhibitors.
Various hallsLunch break at one of the on-site catering areas or nearby restaurants in the Schanzenviertel.
On-site or SchanzenviertelAttend a conference session on the Energy Efficiency Stage or Digital Stage.
Hall A2 or other stagesNetwork at the Start-ups@SMM area or Maritime Career Market.
Designated areasEnd of exhibition day; attend the 'Wine o'Clock' networking reception or explore nearby attractions.-
VariousPlanten un Blomen
Park
10-minute walk
47-hectare urban park between the city centre and the exhibition halls, featuring a Japanese Garden, rose garden, tropical greenhouses, and water-light concerts.-
Speicherstadt
UNESCO World Heritage Site
15 minutes by public transport
Historic warehouse district, home to the Miniatur Wunderland and various museums.-
Elbphilharmonie
Concert Hall / Landmark
20 minutes by public transport
Hamburg's iconic concert hall with a public plaza offering panoramic views of the city and harbour.
Schanzenviertel
Neighbourhood
5-minute walk from West Entrance
Trendy district with independent shops, cafes, bars, and the iconic Rote Flora cultural centre.
HafenCity
Modern District
20 minutes by public transport
A newly developed waterfront district with modern architecture, restaurants, and promenades.
Naval Stage (Hall B8)
Conference & Networking
The central meeting point for the MS&D community, hosting the conference and providing a forum for informal discussions.- 25
Danish Pavilion (Hall B1)
National Pavilion
A hub for Danish maritime companies, offering a lounge, meeting rooms, and networking events.- 11
NL Pavilion (Hall B7)
National Pavilion
Dutch national pavilion with networking receptions.-
Start-ups@SMM Area
Innovation Zone
A dedicated space for start-ups and young companies, ideal for discovering new technologies and connecting with founders.
Wine o'Clock
Networking Event
Popular evening networking event with drinks and opportunities to connect with industry peers.-
Singapore Networking Reception
Networking Event
Held on 2 September 2026 at the Singapore Pavilion, Booth B7.217, Hall B7.-
Budget
Official 2026 exhibitor pricing is not publicly listed; it is provided upon application and via the Online Service Center (OSC). The minimum stand size is 20 sqm. For reference, 2022 SMM prices ranged from €299–€359 per sqm depending on stand type, but 2026 rates are not published.
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Digital Networking & LeadGrowth Package (Basic)
exhibitor · mandatory
EUR 1200 / per company
Turnkey booth package (subsidised, per sqm)
exhibitor · subsidised
DKK 7500–8100 / per sqm
Turnkey booth package (non-subsidised, per sqm)
exhibitor · non-subsidised
DKK 8700–9100 / per sqm
Coordination fee (subsidised)
exhibitor · subsidised
DKK 5750 / per company
Coordination fee (non-subsidised)
exhibitor · non-subsidised
DKK 11500 / per company
Marketing package
exhibitor · optional
EUR 600 / per company
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Networking & LeadGrowth Package (Basic) | exhibitor | mandatory | EUR 1200 / per company | unknown | 2026-01-09 |
| Turnkey booth package (subsidised, per sqm) | exhibitor | subsidised | DKK 7500–8100 / per sqm | estimate | 2026-01-09 |
| Turnkey booth package (non-subsidised, per sqm) | exhibitor | non-subsidised | DKK 8700–9100 / per sqm | estimate | 2026-01-09 |
| Coordination fee (subsidised) | exhibitor | subsidised | DKK 5750 / per company | estimate | 2026-01-09 |
| Coordination fee (non-subsidised) | exhibitor | non-subsidised | DKK 11500 / per company | estimate | 2026-01-09 |
| Marketing package | exhibitor | optional | EUR 600 / per company | unknown | 2026-01-09 |
Decision
Based on your answers, we've evaluated your best fit for MS&D 2026. The scores below indicate which role—Visit, Exhibit, or Skip—suits you best.
QUESTION 1 OF 7
What is your primary goal for attending MS&D 2026?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You have a clear list of exhibitors to visit and conference sessions to attend; you are open to spontaneous meetings and can navigate a large show efficiently.
Best for
Attendees focused on learning, networking, and scouting new technologies without the commitment of a booth. Ideal for executives, procurement officers, and technical professionals seeking direct engagement with exhibitors and naval delegations.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
1–2 weeks to register and book travel
Risks
Limited one-on-one time with top decision-makers
May miss out on exhibitor-only networking events
exhibit
You have a proven product-market fit in naval/defence, a clear target list of attendees, and the resources to engage professionally throughout the event.
Best for
Companies with maritime security, dual-use, or naval technologies ready to generate leads, build brand authority, and connect with procurement authorities. Best for sales-driven teams with a dedicated budget and staffing for the 4-day show.
Min. budget
$5,000.00
Timeline
3–6 months to design booth, ship materials, arrange staff, and promote presence
Risks
High upfront investment with uncertain ROI
Staffing and logistics can be complex
Competition for visitor attention among 2,200+ exhibitors
skip
Your core business is not in naval/defence, or you can wait for the next edition (2028) while focusing on other channels.
Best for
Individuals or small teams with limited budgets, niche focus not aligned with MS&D's primary audience, or those who can achieve their goals through virtual engagement or smaller regional events.
Timeline
No immediate action
Risks
Missing out on critical industry trends and relationships
Potential loss of competitive intelligence
Book with
Rheinmetall Naval Systems
Sponsor of the Naval Stage in Hall B8.-
Announced as sponsor of the Naval Stage.
Recommended providers
Hamburg Messe und Congress partners with Hamburg Tourismus GmbH to provide accommodation tips for visitors- . Visitors can book hotels through the official SMM travel page or via third-party trade fair accommodation services.
FAQs & glossary
Glossary
Trust footer
51
References
22
Publishers
0
Date checked
Hamburg Messe und Congress
Inside Marine
Airfreight News
Norwegian Maritime Exporters
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
