ESA Space for Maritime Security Workshop

The maritime domain requires monitoring systems to address geopolitical, environmental, economic and defence-related security challenges, particularly in distant areas. In recent years, maritime security threats have evolved from strictly maritime crimes, such as piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking and illegal migration, to more complex regional confrontations characterised by state and non-state actors vying for control over key waterways. Examples include China’s operations in the South China Sea and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, involving maritime actions that endanger freedom of navigation and safe passage. Globally, 90% of all goods are transported by sea, and our economies depend on the security of these activities. The protection of territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ), as well as an understanding of activities within these areas and the ability to take action, must be ensured. According to Windward, the final quarter of 2025 marked a decisive shift in the maritime operating environment affecting US national security, with several major developments:

• An escalation in military involvement in commercial shipping;
• Enhanced interagency and coalition recognition of the role of the dark fleet;
• A surge in flagless and fraudulent registrations;
• Intensification of GPS jamming and electronic warfare;
• Increased exposure of the shadow fleet.

European states are under an increasing responsibility to effectively control, protect and manage their territorial waters and exclusive economic zones. The European Space Agency (ESA) plays a crucial role in enhancing maritime security through advanced satellite technologies. These technologies help monitor and manage territorial waters, ensuring compliance with international laws and agreements. ESA is a key actor in developping satellite-based systems (e.g. AIS) to track fishing vessels and monitor illegal activities such as trafficking and smuggling. ESA is also partnering with member states to enhance safety, efficiency, compliance, and environmental sustainability in maritime operations.

The European Space Agency, together with Eurisy, will hold this workshop under the auspices of the Portuguese Space Agency in the Azores (São Miguel Island) and will address how space systems can enhance resilience in the maritime domain and mitigate threats at a time of geopolitical turmoil, with a focus on the two main geographical areas in which many of the maritime challenges faced by European states are concentrated: the Baltic Sea and the overseas territories of ESA’s Member States.

Join us in Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel Island, Portugal, from 1–3 June 2026 for an inspiring one-day workshop.

We will open with a welcome cocktail on the evening of 1 June, continue with a full day of sessions followed by an evening reception on 2 June, and conclude with a special social event on 3 June.

Registration is by invite only and attendance is exclusively in-person.