Autonomous Summit: autonomous systems in a port environment
Autonomous systems are rapidly evolving from pilot projects to operational applications. Ports play an important role in this as a testing environment for innovative technologies that can enhance efficiency, safety and sustainability.
The Autonomous Summit brings together companies, technology developers, researchers, policymakers and port stakeholders to explore the latest developments in autonomous mobility and unmanned systems.
The programme offers an overview of current applications on the water, road, rail and in logistics processes. Through case studies, practical experience and insights from experts, you will gain an understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges associated with integrating autonomous systems into an operational port environment.
The Autonomous Summit is an initiative of Port of Antwerp-Bruges. Blue Cluster supports the event as a partner and is actively involved in its organisation.
👉 Check out the detailed programme
| 09:00 | Welcome and registration |
| 10:00 | Opening session Stéphane Séjourné, Vice-President of the European Commission for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy Jean-Luc Crucke, Belgian Federal Minister of Mobility, Climate and Ecological Transition Annick De Ridder, Flemish Minister of Mobility, Public Works, Ports and Sport |
| 11:00 | Opening of the fair and the demonstration zones |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 14:15 |
Side events
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| 16:00 | China's Next Miracle: How China flips the innovation model Pascal Coppens (China Expert) |
| 17:00 | Networking reception powered by Antwerp Innovation Powerhouse |
| 22:00 | End of the event |
Practical information
The Autonomous Summit brings together companies, technology developers, researchers, policymakers, port stakeholders and end users who want to discover how autonomous vehicles, vessels and other unmanned systems are shaping the port of the future.
The working language of the event is English. Would you like to attend? Register for the event.
Do you have any questions about the programme or the practical organisation? Reach out to us.
About the Port of the Future Week
The Autonomous Summit, together with DroneHorizon 2026, forms the Port of the Future Week. This two-day event focuses on innovative applications of drones, autonomous vehicles and unmanned vessels.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Blue Cluster and various partners bring together experts from industry, research and policy during this event to exchange knowledge, view demonstrations and explore new collaborations around the port of the future.
