The UnderSec Project held its 2nd Plenary Meeting from October 22 to 24, 2024, at the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operations Training Center (NMIOTC) in Chania, Crete, Greece. This gathering brought together experts and stakeholders from various disciplines to discuss advancements in maritime security and collaborative efforts to enhance underwater infrastructure protection.
Day 1: Engaging Discussions and Updates
The meeting commenced on October 22, with a warm welcome and updates from Work Packages (WP) 1 and 9, presented by FHG. The agenda included significant contributions from the Research Executive Agency (REA) and a comprehensive session on Security Training, led by our PSO. After a lunch break, discussions continued with presentations on WP2 and WP7, both facilitated by MANIBUS.
A notable session focused on the situation in Israel and risk evaluation for WP7, which highlighted the importance of situational awareness in maritime operations. The day concluded with a social event at the Neorio Moro naval shipyard, providing an opportunity for networking and informal discussions among participants.
Day 2: In-Depth Work Package Presentations
On October 23, the plenary continued with presentations from various work packages, including WP3 (SAES), WP4 (OMST), WP5 (TAU), WP6 (EUD), and WP8 (ISSNOVA). Each session provided insights into ongoing activities and collaborative strategies aimed at enhancing maritime security. The day wrapped up with a closing session led by FHG, summarizing key takeaways and next steps for the UnderSec Project.
Day 3: Local Insights and Capacity Building
The final day, October 24, featured a command briefing from NMIOTC staff, followed by presentations from Dr. Iosif Progoulakis of the University of the Aegean. His talks focused on protecting critical undersea infrastructure and the capabilities and limitations surrounding undersea pipeline and cable repairs. These discussions underscored the importance of capacity building in addressing vulnerabilities in maritime operations.
The UnderSec Project continues to foster collaboration among its multidisciplinary team, driving forward innovative solutions to enhance underwater security. This plenary meeting was a significant step in achieving those goals, setting the stage for future discussions and initiatives in maritime safety.