CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

The Digital Baltic Junior Conference is dedicated to young scientists from the EU and NATO countries. The Digital Baltic Junior is a unique opportunity for members of scientific teams, young researchers, PhD students and students to present the results of their research, exchange experiences, and develop partnership in the dynamically developing field of digital security. The best presentations will be awarded by the Digital Baltic Junior Conference Award Committee.

A moderated discussion on the prospects for building operational capabilities to ensure security in the Baltic Sea region. Taking into consideration the strategic conditions of the Baltic Sea region and the necessity to intensify international cooperation, this workshop will focus on developing solutions in the following areas:

• ⚬ Monitoring capabilities — development of integrated real-time reconnaissance and situational awareness systems (radars, satellites, sonar systems, drones) and the creation of data exchange systems among Allies (e.g., NATO Maritime Situational Awareness).
• ⚬ Deterrence capabilities – organization of exercises and naval cooperation, development of advanced missile defence and counter-drone systems.
• ⚬ Integration of civilian and military forces – creation of joint crisis response structures involving armed forces, coast guard, and civilian security agencies.

A moderated discussion on managing situational awareness in terms of information sources and its ownership. This workshop will explore various aspects of information management, including sources and types of information, its significance, access, collection, distribution, and governance. The goal is to develop recommendations on technology, international cooperation, legal regulations, and training to enhance situational awareness in the Baltic Sea region. The recommendations are to contribute to the development of the Digital Baltic architecture.

A moderated discussion on technological solutions (including dual-use technologies) for countering threats and ensuring the security of critical maritime infrastructure and broader, the Baltic region. The discussion will focus on key technologies for monitoring, protecting, and managing critical maritime infrastructure, such as AI, ML, IoT, 5G, SATCOM, IMINT, ELINT, SIGINT, UxV, data fusion, cybersecurity and others). It will also address the need for international and cross-sectoral collaboration in implementing and integrating new technological solutions.

The Pitching Session aims to foster a network of stakeholders interested in strengthening the protection of maritime critical infrastructure. This session will provide an opportunity for presenting business ideas, attracting potential partners, looking for funds and forming industrial consortia for common projects to proceed them individually or with the use of EU and NATO platforms, such as European Defence Agency (EDA), European Defence Fund (EDF), Defence Innovation Accelerator for North Atlantic (DIANA), and Horizon Europe. Each startup will have 5 minutes to deliver its pitch.