The 16th Naval Week focuses on maritime security with GMV’s participation

The Spanish Navy held its 16th Naval Week from September 19 to 26. Ricardo Sáenz, General Manager of GMV´s Defence and Security sector, participated in two sessions focused on the challenges and opportunities presented by technological transformation in maritime security and the protection of underwater infrastructure.

The annual event aims to raise awareness of the Navy’s role and bring it closer to the public. Under the theme “Spain’s Future Is at Stake at Sea. The Navy Responds”, the week’s activities highlighted the strategic importance of naval forces in maritime security, freedom of navigation, and the protection of routes, resources, and infrastructure that underpin society in areas such as communications, the economy, and social well-being.

In his remarks, Ricardo highlighted the value of sharing information among public and private organizations, both domestic and international, to ensure the protection of the maritime environment. In this regard, integrating data provided by infrastructure operators, oceanographic institutes, and other organizations with information managed by the Spanish Navy’s Center for Maritime Action Operations and Surveillance (COVAM) would help strengthen surveillance and early-warning capabilities.

The challenges addressed during the 16th Naval Week underscore the importance of collaboration among the Navy, industry, and the academic and scientific communities to turn technological innovation into concrete capabilities.