When it opened yesterday, DSEI 2013 had 1,500 exhibitors and its organiser, Clarion Events, is expecting around 30,000 visitors from around the world this week.
This year the show has: six themed zones this year, each featuring a dedicated seminar & briefing programme; the inaugural Medical & Disaster Relief Zone; and the largest ever number of visiting warships moored in the dock adjoining the exhibition halls.
Visitors will also be able to see the largest ever Land Zone, featuring such leading players as Daimler, General Dynamics, Iveco, Jankel Armouring, JCB, Land Rover, Nexter, Patria, Rheinmetall, Streit Group and Supacat, together with a diversity of niche specialist suppliers. The vehicle display area has also been expanded to meet the demand from manufacturers wanting to display their latest technologies.
The global significance of DSEI is highlighted by the presence of two ships from the Republic of Korea’s Navy, which has included the show in its world tour to mark 60 years since the cessation of hostilities with North Korea. The impressive array of vessels will also include HMS Sutherland a Type 23 frigate and HMS Tyne a River Class offshore patrol vessel, together with ships representing the navies of Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden.
The scenario for this year’s daily waterborne capability demonstrations is focused on peacekeeping, providing situational awareness and supporting larger naval forces involved in keeping sea lanes open and secure.
The air power dimension of DSEI is also very visible, with Wildcat and Merlin Mk II helicopters on display, together with a Spitfire and Eurofighter Typhoon, while prime contractors presenting their capabilities include BAE Systems, GE Aviation, Raytheon and Rolls-Royce.
In addition, the Security Zone, introduced at the last DSEI in 2011, has been expanded to accommodate an influx of exhibitors and new features including a cyber security pavilion. The new Humanitarian & Disaster Relief Zone has been introduced to reflect the rising requirements of medical personnel within the armed forces.
This year there is also a significantly larger Unmanned Systems Showcase.
DSEI event director, Duncan Reid, said: “While maintaining its focus on the traditional land, sea and air disciplines, DSEI is constantly evolving, for example showcasing cyber warfare and the latest advances in medical technology. Companies from the world’s established and emerging markets have filled the halls, setting the scene for the best ever DSEI”.
The final day of the show is this Friday (13th September).
