A record number of ships (subject to operational requirements) have confirmed their presence at Defence & Security Equipment International (DSEI) between September 10 and 13. The vessels will dock alongside the ExCeL arena and form a significant element of the strongest maritime proposition the event has ever offered.

DSEI organiser, Clarion Events, has been working closely with its international partners to secure a diverse and extensive flotilla within the Greenwich Docks complex. The impressive roster of vessels include: the German Braunschweig Class Corvette, FGS Magdeburg (photo); the Dutch Holland Class Corvette, HNMLS Groningen; HSwMS Vinga and Ulvon - two Swedish MCMVs which have been recently updated; and the Republic of Korea Navy Ship Dae-Jo-Young, which is a KDX-2 class Destroyer and the Logistic Support Ship, Whacheon. Meanwhile the Royal Navy plans to despatch a Type 23 Frigate and a River Class OPV.

In order for visitors to get the most out of this unique fleet, specially conducted tours, organised through the show's Ships Visits Bureau, will be staged, offering arranged government, military and industry representatives a valuable opportunity to view the latest developments in naval ship design and equipment.

The international nature of DSEI's naval proposition is also evident from the breadth of nationalities to be found in the shipyards exhibiting this year. For the first time the likes of Cammell Laird, Lurssen, ThyssenKrupp, Damen, Daewoo and Hyundai Heavy Industries will be present, in addition to Asmar, Mazagon Dock, Babcock and BAE among others. An enlarged US Maritime Pavilion will also feature, in conjunction with an inclusive showcase of prime contractors and niche suppliers displaying the latest technological developments, following its inaugural success in 2011.

The event will also offer an extended program of live waterborne demonstrations to demonstrate the cutting-edge maritime equipment on display. The program will include the first public demonstrations of several RIBs, Force Protection Craft, Blue Force Tracking Systems and unmanned MCM surface and subsurface vessels.

“The record number of ships and unprecedented strength of the Naval Zone at this year's event is indicative of the growth the show has undergone in the last two years”, said DSEI Event Director Duncan Reid.

“There can be no doubt that the naval proposal has been significantly strengthened, building upon its success in 2011. It represents yet another progression in the structured development of the show, which will ensure that 2013 will be the most successful DSEI to date”, he added.

Confirming the Royal Navy's support for DSEI, Navy Command Headquarters (NCHQ) said that: “The Royal Navy's significant presence at this year's DSEI demonstrates its long-term commitment to supporting and promoting UK Industry. On all four days of the exhibition a team of senior Naval figures, including the First Sea Lord, will discuss current and future capabilities and how these will ensure the Royal Navy continues to be a first-class, battle-winning force."”

DSEI is a biennial event held in London and will take place from 10-13 September 2013. In 2011 senior military and other key personnel from 121 countries attended, including 75 official delegations attracted by 30 national pavilions. This year is set to break new records as visitors from across the globe are expected to be attracted by 40 international pavilions, 1,400 exhibitors and an enhanced seminar program.