The Future of UK Shipbuilding – Opportunity or Crisis?

RECORDED March 2026
DURATION 40 minutes
FORMAT Expert Panel

The UK maritime sector stands at a critical juncture. With rising global tensions and increased pressure on NATO members to strengthen defence capabilities, there are significant opportunities for UK shipbuilding. But we also face real challenges around skills, capacity and international competition.

In this episode, Darren Jones speaks with Tom Chant MBE, CEO of the Society of Maritime Industries, and Steve Boam, CEO of Develop Consulting, about government procurement, the future of UK shipbuilding, and how continuous improvement methodologies could help UK yards compete against subsidised international competitors.

The Maritime Forecast is brought to you by Develop Consulting in partnership with the Society of Maritime Industries.

Our Panel:

Darren Jones – Host

Tom Chant MBE – CEO of the Society of Maritime Industries (SMI)

Steve Boam – CEO Develop Consulting

Key Topics:
Who Should Listen:
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