Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director, Experia Events

As the 14th edition of IMDEX Asia 2025 welcomes decision, industry leaders and practitioners to Singapore, Asian Defence Journal sat down with Managing Director of Experia Events, Leck Chet Lam.

ADJ: How does IMDEX Asia look to set itself apart from previous editions?

LCL: IMDEX Asia has always evolved with time, and over the past two years, we’ve witnessed significant growth in the maritime industry. Data indicates that the maritime artificial intelligence (AI) market has expanded nearly threefold in 2024, driven by the adoption of cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance naval operations. Navies across the globe are increasingly turning to uncrewed systems to support missions such as surveillance, reconnaissance and combat – across subsea, surface and aerial domains.

As such, we have shaped IMDEX Asia 2025 to be the platform for industry leaders across the globe to showcase the latest innovations in maritime AI. This year, we are introducing a new “Uncrewed Systems Zone” to highlight the increasing role of AI-driven automations in revolutionising maritime operations. In addition, we will also have an exclusive sharing session, titled: “AI – Beyond the Algorithm”, where industry experts will share strategic insights into the transformative impact of AI on maritime operations and explore the next frontier in autonomous and uncrewed systems.

Both initiatives are a testament to the growing importance of such technologies in modern naval forces and IMDEX Asia’s focus to help drive the future of maritime defence forward.

ADJ: As regional maritime tensions persist, how does IMDEX Asia look to position itself as a strategic platform for dialogue and maritime cooperation?

LCL: This will be our 14th edition of IMDEX Asia and for years, we have been committed to fostering constructive dialogue and promoting maritime cooperation. Over the years, we have established ourselves as a neutral platform where naval leaders, industry experts, and policymakers can come together to discuss, share insights and work towards collaborative solutions – and this has not changed.

We are really excited to welcome over 12,000 delegates from more than 70 countries and regions, and more than 230 participating companies representing 26 countries and regions this year. This signals how IMDEX Asia continues to have global relevance as a strategic platform for driving innovation, strengthening partnerships and addressing the evolving challenges in the maritime industry.

ADJ: How does IMDEX Asia look to address emerging trends in maritime warfare and maritime security?

LCL: One question we always ask ourselves is: “How can we ensure that attendees and exhibitors walk away from IMDEX Asia with valuable insights that will shape the future of the industry?” Over the past few months, we’ve been putting the pieces of the puzzle together to craft an experience that is not only informative but also forward-thinking.

By focusing on emerging technologies like AI, autonomous operations and dual-use innovations, we’re creating a space where attendees can explore the “next step” in these advancements. From expert-led forums and discussions to on-ground demonstrations, our goal is to highlight both the present and the future of maritime operations.

​​ADJ: With the International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC), how does the conference shape the future of maritime relations in this region and beyond?

LCL: The IMSC has always been a cornerstone of IMDEX Asia, bringing together key stakeholders from around the globe to discuss maritime security challenges we face today.

This year, we are expecting 56 delegations, which include 43 Navy chiefs, Coast Guard directors and heads of maritime law enforcement agencies from 12 countries, who will congregate for the exclusive IMSC that drives and facilitates strategic conversations to promote mutual understanding and collaboration in Asia Pacific.

ADJ: What is your outlook on IMDEX Asia’s future?

LCL: IMDEX Asia has experienced impressive growth over the years, and as we’ve seen in past editions, the depth, breadth and reach of the event have expanded. This speaks volumes to our increasing significance as a vital platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration. Looking ahead, our focus as the organiser and owner of IMDEX Asia will be on ensuring that we continue to evolve in response to the shifting dynamics and continue to stay relevant to the maritime industry. This means curating content that is aligned with global maritime priorities, while creating spaces for thought leadership, peer learning and collaboration.

This is why we have created a dynamic agenda for IMDEX Asia 2025, creating opportunities for stakeholders to come together, share ideas and be inspired by the wealth of knowledge and innovations driving the sector forward.