Experimentation in Progress at Data2Sea
SeaSEC Challenge Weeks Data2Sea – Rostock | Experimentation in Progress
The SeaSEC 2026 Challenge Weeks in Rostock, launched under the banner ‘Data2Sea’, are now fully underway. Following the initial build-up and opening phase, the programme has moved into an intensive period of operational trials, collaboration, and live demonstrations focused on strengthening the protection of underwater infrastructure across NNCC nations. During the initial phase, observer groups were welcomed on-site and introduced to the scale and complexity of the challenges.
A clear highlight of the week was the visit of German and Dutch Chiefs of Navy: German Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack and Dutch Vice Admiral Harold Liebregs. Their presence underscores the high level of naval interest and the strategic relevance of the SeaSEC Challenge Weeks.
The boathouse, hosting all six participating consortia, has become a central hub of innovation and exchange. Working from there underlines the collaborative yet competitive nature of SeaSEC, where Red, Blue and White Teams are adressing the challenges simultaneously. A Red team member noted: “In the end everyone is winning, we are all getting better at our specialties and learning along the way, which is a win for all participants.”
The past days exercises included a military UAV operation in the harbour of Warnemünde, alongside preparations involving advanced sensor systems such as data buoys. These real-world deployments demonstrate the practical application of sensor data fusion and contribute directly to building a more accurate and near-real-time maritime operational picture. For more details look at https://seasec.org/challenge-weeks
NNCC continues to actively follow and support these developments, leveraging the outcomes from the SeaSEC Challenge Weeks to strengthen northern naval capabilities. Stay tuned for further updates from Rostock in the coming days. Keep an eye on our website for the latest developments from the SeaSEC Challenge Weeks.
