Solent Freeport is set to promote the Solent’s maritime sector on the international stage next month, establishing a presence at SMM Hamburg 2026 in partnership with Maritime Solent.
The organisation is providing grant funding to enable four regional businesses – XB44, RAD Propulsion, Attis and Marine Cranes – to attend the exhibition. The initiative is intended to help the companies build international connections, identify new customers and explore commercial opportunities.
“The Solent has an exceptional concentration of maritime expertise, innovation and entrepreneurial businesses, and we want to help those businesses take their capabilities to the world,” said Brian Johnson, chair of Solent Freeport.
The four businesses reflect the breadth of maritime expertise across the region. Hampshire-based XB44 provides security consultancy, training and investigation services, while RAD Propulsion develops electric propulsion and autonomous vessel technology for commercial and defence applications.
Portsmouth-based Attis specialises in safety and engineering services across maritime, infrastructure and industrial environments, while Southampton-based Marine Cranes provides crane specification, commissioning, servicing and support.
Johnson said the initiative was about creating opportunities for businesses rather than simply promoting the freeport.
“SMM Hamburg brings the international maritime industry together in one place, making it a valuable opportunity to build relationships, showcase UK expertise and open doors to new markets,” he said.
The freeport and Maritime Solent see international engagement as an important part of strengthening the Solent’s position as a globally significant maritime cluster and gateway for trade.
Stu Baker, chief executive of Maritime Solent, said SMM provided an opportunity to demonstrate the region’s capabilities while highlighting the potential of the Freeport.
“It’s a fantastic platform to showcase the strength of our maritime sector internationally and demonstrate how the Freeport can support growth, competitiveness and maritime excellence across the region,” he said.
Maritime Solent will support the participating businesses throughout the exhibition, helping them connect with potential customers, partners and investors.
