The security of shipping channels has become an important concern in view of the growing threat to international shipping. This development is met by the International Conference “Maritime Security & Defence” (MS&D) held in Hamburg for the first time during the SMM 2008, shipbuilding, machinery & marine technology international trade fair hamburg, at the Hamburg Fair site on 24 and 25 September 2008. There are close links between the subject matter of the MS&D and the international shipbuilding fair SMM. However, this year is the only occasion when the International Conference on Maritime Security and Defence will be held at the world’s premier shipbuilding fair…