The 2023 Navy League Sea-Air-Space expo, held from April 3-5 in National Harbor, Maryland, brought together over 300 exhibitors to showcase the latest in naval, marine, and coast guard technologies. Speakers and attendees alike discussed critical issues facing the industry, including the need to invest in people and prioritize training and retention programs.

During a panel discussion at the event, Admiral Michael Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations, emphasized the importance of investing in human capital, stating that “our people are our most important asset.” Gilday noted that training and development programs are key to ensuring the Navy remains ready to face emerging challenges in the global security environment.

Leaders from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard also highlighted the need for a consistent and combined presence in the Indo-Pacific region to deter China. Admiral Karl Schultz, Commandant of the Coast Guard, stated that “our ability to work together with our partners and allies is critical to maintaining stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.” Similarly, General David Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps, emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with partners in the region, stating that “we cannot do this alone.”

Cloud and cyber capabilities were another focus of the event, with leaders emphasizing the need for a seamless virtual cloud to improve communication and data sharing. “We need to create an environment where information can flow freely between different platforms, services, and commands,” said Vice Admiral Nancy Norton, Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency. Additionally, speakers discussed the need for strong cyber defenses to protect against increasingly sophisticated threats, including cyber terrorism and espionage.

Several new technologies were unveiled at the event, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems. Rear Admiral Gregory Harris, Director of Air Warfare for the Navy, discussed the benefits of the new UAS systems, stating that “these drones will give us greater flexibility and situational awareness in a variety of missions.” The new ASW systems incorporate the latest technology to detect and track enemy submarines more effectively, providing the Navy with a critical advantage in maritime security.

In addition to showcasing the latest technologies, the expo provided networking opportunities for industry and government leaders to collaborate and discuss future initiatives. “This event provides an opportunity for us to come together and share ideas and perspectives,” said Kevin Fahey, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Acquisition. “It’s important that we work together to identify new technologies and strategies that can enhance our capabilities and keep us ahead of emerging threats.”

The 2023 Navy League Sea-Air-Space expo demonstrated the Navy’s commitment to innovation and collaboration. As Admiral Christopher Grady, Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, stated, “the partnerships we build and the innovations we develop at events like this are critical to maintaining our advantage and ensuring the security of our nation.”