Navy Hosts IMDEC 2025 to Strengthen Maritime Security and Advance Blue Economy

By Christabel Danso ABEAM

The Ghana Navy will host the 4th edition of the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025) on July 8-9 in Accra. This two-day gathering seeks to unite over 500 prominent attendees from more than 70 countries to address the increasing challenges and possibilities within Africa's maritime region.

Introduced in 2019, the two-year initiative has gradually evolved into a key platform for international discussions on maritime safety. The conference this year takes place as the region faces growing maritime challenges, including piracy, unauthorized fishing, cybercrime, and economic disruption.

The IMDEC 2025 conference will gather regional and global Chiefs of Naval Staff, business leaders, and government officials to work together and examine innovative approaches that safeguard the crucial economic zone. The gathering is anticipated to include panel debates, interactive workshops, and a state-of-the-art maritime technology showcase.

"Only by integrating innovative policy structures with practical and achievable strategies, like those outlined in IMDEC 2025, can we effectively manage the challenges of change," stated Commodore Ben Baba Abdul, Chief Staff Officer of Naval Headquarters, during his speech at a media event in Accra.

IMDEC 2025 aims to promote robust cooperation between governments, navies, and the private sector in addressing both conventional and unconventional security issues. As threats like smuggling, piracy, economic disruption, and terrorism grow more technologically advanced, organizers emphasize that long-term multilateral partnerships are essential. The event will also provide a platform to highlight achievements in maritime security within the Gulf of Guinea, alongside presenting a plan for the sustainable development of the marine industry.

Exhibition

The showcase portion of IMDEC 2025 will highlight cutting-edge maritime innovations such as satellite image solutions, self-driving ships, intelligent ports, radar systems, and blockchain-based logistics networks. Meanwhile, defense firms from around the globe are set to display equipment designed to enhance the capabilities of African navies in addressing cross-border maritime challenges. As stated by the Chief Staff Officer, these technologies are crucial not only for strengthening defense but also for upgrading port security, cargo handling, and blue economy infrastructure.

Other notable features of IMDEC 2025

Mr. Abdul also mentioned that a key topic at this year's event will be the growing risk of cybercrime in the maritime sector. "With digitalization changing conventional shipping and port activities, coast guards and navies are encountering complex security issues targeting automated systems and data networks. Cybersecurity has emerged as a vital maritime security concern since it affects economic service providers and the navies' ability to ensure maritime safety."

The head of staff recognized the media's essential role in informing the public, particularly regarding issues involving maritime risks and opportunities, and directed the sector to make every effort to increase awareness about the economic benefits of ocean management and the latest developments in the maritime field.

Global impact

The Ghanaian Navy, collaborating with global organizations, will leverage the results of IMDEC 2025 to shape international maritime policy and strengthen Africa's role in the worldwide shipping industry. Conversations and collaborative initiatives started at the conference are anticipated to have a major effect on the maritime industry as well as global trade and security.

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Defence Firms Optimistic About Hundreds More Jobs

Additional hundreds of jobs will be brought to companies that provide services to the military as the government boosts its defence expenditure, as stated by business leaders.

Emma Baker, the policy head at the defense industry organization ADS, mentioned that they "expect a significant increase in work" from government contracts.

Over 40,000 individuals are employed by firms in the defense industry within the South West region, with many of these businesses depending on contracts from the Ministry of Defence to sustain their operations.

A large number of people are assembling at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in Gloucestershire, the largest military aviation event globally.

"We're still waiting for the orders to arrive," said Seb Greene, CEO of the Bristol-based Broadway Group.

We are sure it is on its way, but these matters often require time to reach us.

One of the main attractions at RIAT is the helicopters from Yeovil, frequently moving horizontally.

At the renowned Somerset helicopter plant, they pay close attention when the Prime Minister speaks aboutincreasing defence spending.

More than 3,000 employees are employed at the historic facility, which is currently managed by Leonardo Helicopters.

And they are awaiting the final approval on a£1 billion agreement to provide for the Royal Air ForceWith more than 20 new helicopters. The agreement is expected to "generate or maintain over 3,000 jobs" in Yeovil, as stated by the company.

No other companies are still competing for the contract, but the agreement is currently delayed due to the government's evaluation of defense expenditures and purchasing processes.

In the meantime, hundreds of additional young apprentices and graduate engineers are being hired.

I absolutely adore it," AJ McKenzie said to me, smiling. "I wouldn't alter a single thing about it.

Raised in Yeovil, the 20-year-old began an apprenticeship last year.

He is currently part of the team responsible for maintaining the gearboxes of helicopters operated by the Royal Navy and RAF.

Disassembling items and reassembling them, there's a lot of 'why isn't this functioning?', instead of simply 'it's not working, throw it away'. It's very rewarding.

Not every task in this helicopter factory requires a wrench and engine oil. Hundreds of employees are engaged in advanced digital engineering, such as Chrissy Smith. She has been working here for 36 years, starting as a technical assistant.

"Each day is unique," she remarked.

Now, she is showcasing the 'Digital Twin', a high-performance simulator that enables pilots to familiarize themselves with the controls in the comfort and safety of an indoor environment.

She fully understands that her team's efforts are crucial in saving the lives of aircrew during severe conditions.

"I feel honored to be involved in a project that will safeguard and ensure the country's security, which is why I am proud to be employed by Leonardo," she stated.

For the time being, Chrissy, AJ, and thousands of others are left waiting as the Ministry of Defence reviews the request for their new helicopter.

Leaders in the defense sector are assured that once it arrives, the MoD review will bring additional tasks.

"We expect a significant amount of additional work," said Emma Baker, representing the trade association ADS.

It is evident that the government recognizes the need for significant efforts to enhance industrial capabilities.

And it's not only the UK. Throughout Europe, military expenditures are also increasing.

Hundreds of small companies are also anticipating the government's choice on what to purchase in greater quantities.

In a modest, unremarkable trading area in East Bristol, you might easily pass by Broadway Group without noticing.

Enter the facility, and you'll find engineers producing highly precise components for jet engines. These parts will also be utilized by RAF pilots flying at supersonic speeds. Exceptional accuracy is the norm.

Seb Greene, the CEO of Broadway, stated that defense contracts helped sustain the company during the pandemic.

Commercial orders suddenly dropped dramatically," he explained. "Everyone stopped flying. However, defense-related work continued, importantly.

The company has expanded from 80 employees to 180 due to military contracts, and currently employs four apprentices annually, along with one graduate.

Nanditha Gampala pursued a Master's in Business, and subsequently secured a position at Broadway Group. She emphasized that careers in the industry are not limited to engineers.

The aerospace industry offers opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds and with different skills, showcasing a wide range of possibilities. Therefore, avoid limiting yourself, as there truly is something suitable for everyone in this field.

Should the MoD eventually release its list of new equipment for the enlarged military forces, numerous contracts are likely to be awarded to companies such as this.

In the South West of England, 130 companies are involved in military projects, providing jobs for 44,000 individuals. For the time being, they are awaiting decisions from Whitehall.

Such matters require time," remarked Seb Greene, with a wry smile. "However, we are certain the agreements will arrive, and we'll be able to allocate resources toward additional technology and, most importantly, more personnel.

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Ukraine News: Kyiv Hit by Major Russian Drone Strike

Russia launched new drone strikes on Kyiv, just as President Donald Trump criticized past US military aid to Ukraine. Follow Daily Newsfor more.

Russia attacked the capital of Ukraine with dozens of combat drones on Friday, according to authorities in Kyiv.

They seem to have struck mostly residential buildings, several people were reported injured.

The attack came after a US announcement this week that a batch of arms shipments to Ukraine would be paused.

President Donald Trump said his predecessor, Joe Biden, "emptied out our whole country giving them weapons, and we have to make sure that we have enough for ourselves."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was hoping to discuss the issue with Trump on Friday.

This is a roundup of the latest headlines regarding Russia's war in Ukraine on Friday, July 4, 2025:

Kyiv authorities report massive Russian drone attack

Kyiv came under heavy drone attack overnight, with Russian forces striking at least 13 locations across the Ukrainian capital.

Ukraine’s air defenses were active for hours and explosions echoed across the city.

At least 14 people were injured, 12 of them hospitalized, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Officials say residential areas were targeted, with fires breaking out in at least two districts.

The Ukrainian Air Force reports that the Russian military launched at least one Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missile. They also fired ballistic missiles in two waves at targets in Kyiv and nearby areas.

Trump claims US 'emptied out' its arsenal to arm Ukraine

President Donald Trump says the US gave Ukraine too many weapons under President Joe Biden, claiming the country has "emptied out" its own supply.

"We're giving weapons, but we've given so many weapons. But we are giving weapons. And we're working with them and trying to help them, but we haven't. You know, Biden emptied out our whole country giving them weapons, and we have to make sure that we have enough for ourselves," he said.

Trump's statement comes after a pause in some weapons shipments, including Patriot missiles and precision-guided artillery, to Ukraine as Russia steps up its offensive.

The halt caught Kyiv off guard. Ukrainian leaders summoned the acting US envoy on Wednesday, warning that the delay could weaken their defenses.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he hopes to speak with Trump in the coming days to clarify the situation.

"I hope that maybe tomorrow, or close days, these days, I will speak about it with President Trump," he said on Thursday.

The Pentagon has not said when full deliveries might resume..

Welcome to our coverage

It's now been 861 days since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Overnight, Kyiv came under a sustained drone attack, with explosions reported across the city.

This comes even as Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow is open to further talks with Ukraine.

He told US President Donald Trump this during an hour-long phone discussion on Thursday.

The US president said the conversation didn't lead to any breakthroughs. Putin was adamant that Moscow would not "give up" on its goals in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is hoping to speak with Trump on Friday, particularly about the recent pause in some US weapons shipments to Ukraine.

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