Enabling Naval Power with Technology for Next Generation Surface Warships

Across the Euro-Atlantic, allied nations and partners are in a transitional period with their surface fleets. Modernisation is a key priority with surface combatants aging out of service, and the need to update surface warships capabilities to meet the needs of an evolving threat battlespace. As nations work against prolonged lead times, complex procurement cycles, and working to keep apace with technological advancements, discourse surrounding the hybrid fleet concepts and the integration of warships and uncrewed naval systems are coming to the forefront.

This transitional period coincides with rising tensions between NATO, allied partners and hostile states. Ongoing conflicts in the Black and Red Sea and increased hybrid threats and grey zone activity in the Arctic highlight the key role of maritime warfare in modern conflicts. In response to this, surface warships design is increasingly moving towards digital innovation, including autonomous systems, enhanced combat systems, and AI-driven technology. Recognising the fast pace of technological adavancments in the maritime arena and the new threats that emerge as a result: navies are prioritising modularity in shipbuilding to enable to integration of future capabilities.

Defence iQ’s Surface Warships conference returns on 13th-14th October 2026, Troia, Portugal. Bringing together naval leaders, decision makers and experts from across the maritime ecosystem to find solutions to the most pressing challenges in building, maintaining and deploying surface warships in today’s maritime environment.

Join us in Portugal to hear from the senior military leaders, naval decision makers and industry experts shaping future surface fleets!