Brussels, Belgium | 16–17 June 2026
The AI4COPSEC consortium met in Brussels on 16–17 June 2026 for its 3rd General Assembly, bringing together project partners from across Europe to review progress, strengthen collaboration, and advance the development of AI-powered solutions for maritime surveillance and civil security. The two-day event served as a key milestone in the project, enabling partners to align technical developments, discuss future exploitation opportunities, and engage with external stakeholders.
The General Assembly opened with updates from project coordinators Simula Research Laboratory (SRL) and eOdyn, who presented the project’s overall progress and key achievements to date. Partners then shared advancements across several work packages, highlighting developments in AI methodologies, system architecture, platform integration, and validation activities. Particular attention was given to the project’s four operational use cases: search and rescue operations, oil spill detection, irregular migration, and illegal fishing operations, demonstrating how AI4COPSEC technologies are being tailored to support diverse maritime security scenarios.
A major focus of the first day was a dedicated technical workshop addressing data gaps identification and data flow mapping. Partners worked collaboratively to assess the availability, quality, and interoperability of data sources used throughout the project. These discussions are essential for ensuring that AI models can effectively integrate heterogeneous maritime data streams and deliver reliable situational awareness capabilities to end users. The workshop concluded with a joint session to identify priorities and next steps for the project’s technical development.
The second day shifted towards future impact, sustainability, and system integration. During the Exploitation Workshop, led by ITML, consortium members explored pathways for maximising the project’s long-term value, discussing potential market opportunities, stakeholder engagement strategies, and routes to adoption beyond the project’s lifetime. Through a Lean Model Canvas exercise, partners examined how AI4COPSEC innovations can create value for maritime authorities, civil protection organisations, and other security stakeholders.
Technical collaboration remained at the forefront through an Integration Workshop coordinated by Hozint – Horizon Intelligence. Discussions focused on APIs, platform connectivity, and interoperability between the project’s technological components. As AI4COPSEC brings together multiple data sources, analytical tools, and operational platforms, ensuring seamless integration is crucial for building a robust and scalable solution capable of supporting real-world maritime security operations.
An important highlight of the General Assembly was the External Stakeholders Session, featuring David Bajouco, Director Maritime Service at CLS Group. The session provided valuable industry insights into current maritime surveillance challenges and emerging operational needs. By connecting project developments with real-world perspectives, the discussion reinforced the importance of developing solutions that are both technologically innovative and operationally relevant for maritime authorities and service providers.
Beyond the formal agenda, the meeting provided an excellent opportunity for partners to exchange knowledge, strengthen cooperation, and align their efforts for the next stages of the project. The General Assembly concluded with a wrap-up session outlining upcoming activities, integration milestones, and priorities for the months ahead.
The two day meeting in Brussels was organised and hosted by Magellan Circle and Hozint – Horizon Intelligence.
As AI4COPSEC progresses towards its next phase, partners leave Brussels energised and committed to advancing innovative AI-driven technologies that enhance maritime surveillance, improve situational awareness, and strengthen civil security capabilities across Europe.
