Programme
2012 will be a major year for underwater procurement in Asia. Whilst players such as India and China have well established programs, many more nations are likely to join the fray in 2012 and beyond. According to IHS Jane’s, Malaysia and Indonesia are building their capabilities and Vietnam is set to join them as it actively establishes their underwater capabilities.
Thailand is once again looking to secure a submarine capability and is looking at a multitude of options. The Philippines have outlined the need for a submarine capability, expected to be worth USD1 Billion with a purchase proposal expected in 2012.
IHS Jane’s also states that the Asia Pacific region is projected to become the world’s largest market in the next decade ‘with more than 90 new-build hulls and transferred worth in excess of USD41 billion’ between now and 2020.
Furthermore IHS Jane’s has stated that South East Asia alone ‘will acquire 13 submarines at a cost of around USD4.7 billion in the same period.
Building on the highly successful 2011 conference, UDT Asia (UDTA) 2012 will deliver a comprehensive picture of the current underwater landscape in Asia. UDTA 2012 will explore the proliferation of submarines of all types, the increasing use of mini-submarines and other manned and unmanned underwater vehicles.
The conference will also look at the role of both state and irregular players, looking at both littoral and deep water activities, assessing the impact of cover, illicit actions by irregular players and the effectiveness of the states response.
Following the very successful interactive scenario session (ISS) - Flashpoint in the South China Sea - UDTA 2012 will again incorporate an ISS panel, which will again have a focus on Asia specific flashpoints.
If you are interested in taking part in the ISS panel or speaking at the event, please visit our Call For Papers section.
