
Virginia’s world-class defence industry is taking centre stage at the Indo-Pacific 2025 International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, highlighting the Commonwealth’s leadership in maritime innovation and commitment to allied collaboration. Indo-Pacific 2025 – the region’s premier naval defence and commercial maritime exposition – brings together defence, industry, government, and academia from around the globe. With more than 750 exhibitors expected, the event provides an ideal platform for Virginia to demonstrate its cutting-edge naval technologies and strengthen international partnerships.
Virginia’s delegation, led by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), includes some of the Commonwealth’s most innovative defence and maritime companies. As a U.S. state that is home to 8 of the world’s top 10 defence contractors, Virginia boasts a robust ecosystem of shipbuilders, advanced manufacturers, and technology firms. Companies such as BecTech, MELD Manufacturing, and WR Systems are exemplars of Virginia’s collective strength – offering expertise in naval engineering, additive manufacturing, and maritime navigation systems. Rather than spotlighting individual biographies, the delegation is emphasising Virginia’s collective capability to deliver integrated solutions for modern defence challenges.
Virginia’s participation at Indo-Pacific 2025 comes at a pivotal time in U.S.–Australia defence cooperation. Under the AUKUS trilateral security pact, the Royal Australian Navy is slated to acquire up to five Virginia-class submarines from the United States, underscoring Virginia’s strategic role in global defence. The Commonwealth is a key part of that effort thanks to its thriving maritime industry in Hampton Roads and Virginia’s leadership in defence and cybersecurity. By showcasing technologies that align with AUKUS priorities – from autonomous systems to cyber-secure naval hardware – Virginia is reinforcing its commitment to the alliance’s goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“Virginia is proud to showcase our world-class defense and maritime capabilities at Indo-Pacific 2025.” said Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of VEDP. “As the home of the largest naval base in the world and a hub for cutting-edge innovation, we are uniquely positioned to contribute to Australia’s evolving defense priorities under AUKUS. This mission reflects our deep commitment to strengthening transpacific partnerships.”
“For Australian defence stakeholders, having Virginia’s top innovators here is invaluable,” said Giovanni Munoz, Managing Director at Foley, VEDP’s in-country partner. “The strong U.S.–Australia defence ties are only growing deeper through AUKUS, and events like Indo-Pacific 2025 showcase the collaboration behind that partnership. We’re seeing first-hand how Virginia’s expertise – from advanced shipbuilding to smart manufacturing – combines with Australia’s initiatives to drive forward-thinking solutions in maritime security.” Munoz added that Foley has worked closely with VEDP to connect Virginia companies with Australian counterparts, fostering long-term business relationships and joint innovation.
Virginia’s presence at Indo-Pacific 2025 is centred at the USA Partnership Pavilion (Booth #1A16), where VEDP is hosting the Commonwealth’s exhibitors. Throughout the three-day expo, Virginia companies will engage with international naval delegations and industry leaders to explore new opportunities. The showcase not only positions Virginia as a go-to source of defence innovation for allies, but also underscores the importance of transpacific collaboration in an era of evolving security challenges. By leveraging its strengths – from a highly skilled workforce to decades of naval engineering know-how – Virginia is solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
MySecurity Media – Space and Earth Partners and Advisory are media partners to Indo Pacific 2025.