Event Overview:

The premier Sea Service conference and exposition on the West Coast that brings military, government and industry leaders together.

What is WEST?

The premier naval conference and exposition on the West Coast. Co-sponsored by AFCEA International and the U.S. Naval Institute, WEST is the only event in which the makers of platforms and the designers of technologies can network, discuss and demonstrate their solutions in a single locale.

One recurring highlight of WEST is a town hall discussion among the Chief of Naval Operations, the Marine Corps Commandant and Coast Guard Commandant. In addition to the main program, WEST offers two Engagement Theaters; smaller, more intimate venues in which military, government and industry professionals will drill deeper into specific topics and issues.

Who attends WEST?

WEST connects the industry professionals who design and build the platforms, equipment and weapons with the designers of communications and technical systems. To complete their missions successfully, more than 150,000 professionals in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard who live in the San Diego area depend on the open discussions and valuable networking WEST provides. Senior military and government officials talk directly to the operators to gain valuable feedback directly from them. Industry leaders attend because they can connect with decision makers and operators over the three-day event.

Attendee Information:

Why Attend WEST?

We are living in complex and uncertain times. For the first time since the end of the Cold War, the United States is facing a near-peer threat. 

LEARN

Attend three days of open discussions with defense and maritime leaders. Gain a better understanding of the impacts and implications of the new National Security Strategy. Hear about the current set of challenges facing the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, and be a part of the dialogue on the opportunities and solutions to address these concerns.

CONNECT

Spend time with military, government and industry ‘out of the office’ and ‘outside of the beltway.’ Engage with speakers, attendees and exhibitors and discuss ideas and insights. Afternoon happy hours on the exhibit floor provide an opportunity to network with thought leaders.

INNOVATE

Explore and experience the latest platforms, leading edge technologies and state-of-the-art networking capabilities that support the Sea Services operations. Visit over 300 maritime exhibits.

Exhibitor Information:

Meet the operators – outside Washington D.C. – who specify the current needs and use your systems, platforms, technologies and networks

WEST is the premier Sea Services event focused on operations in the Asia-Pacific region - showcasing emerging systems, platforms, technologies and networks that will impact all areas of current and future Sea Service operations. Senior military leaders and industry representatives will showcase and discuss emerging technologies and equipment that will impact all areas of future Sea Service operations.

WEST is uniquely timed to take place immediately after the defense budget roll out.

Gain access and hear from the decision makers and buyers, including the new Pacific Command and Pacific Fleet commanders.

Participate in a town hall discussion with leaders of the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

WEST is THE PLACE for the makers of platforms and the designers of technologies to network, discuss and demonstrate their solutions in a single locale. Industry leaders learn about military requirements – not just the what, but the why- and connect with decision makers as well as operators in a professional environment away from the office and beltway.

WEST has an operational focus and takes place in a very large concentration of operational Navy and Marine personnel.

Strategy and Budget focus has shifted to the Pacific, and WEST is the largest and most prestigious maritime conference on the West Coast.

About the Co-Sponsors:

AFCEA International

AFCEA International, established in 1946, is a non-profit organization serving its members by providing a forum for the ethical exchange of information, and dedicated to increasing knowledge through the exploration of issues relevant to its members in information technology, communications and electronics for the defense, homeland security and intelligence communities.

The U.S. Naval Institute
The U.S. Naval Institute is the Nation’s premier independent forum for critical thinking on issues of defense. Its books, Proceedings and Naval History magazines, professional conferences and other initiatives help service members and fellow citizens better understand modern security dilemmas. Visit us at Booth 930 for free magazines and to interact with authors who will inscribe your new USNI books.  Free on-line membership extended to Active Duty.