The mission
The interdisciplinary research focus on Maritime Security (iFMS) is based on a cooperation agreement (only available in German) between the Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Bundeswehr Hamburg (HSU/UniBw H) and the German Federal Ministry of Defence (BMVg). Its aim is to enhance strategic foresight and contribute to strengthening the German government’s strategic capabilities in security policy. To provide evidence-based advice, facilitate opinion-building, and support strategy development, iFMS consolidates the scientific expertise on maritime security available at HSU/UniBw H and maintains close collaboration with the BMVg.
In parallel, iFMS researchers pursue independent studies related to maritime topics, particularly in connection with NATO’s northern flank, the Baltic Sea region, the Indo-Pacific, and maritime critical infrastructures. The main points of contact are Prof. Dr. Gary S. Schaal (Director) and Dr. Julian Pawlak (Scientific Coordinator).
The cooperation
By providing scientific expertise through relevant analyses and studies, the iFMS contributes to the formation of evidence-based perspectives and strategies within the Federal Ministry of Defence, particularly in the department Pol II 1.
The Expertise
Within the topic of Maritime Security, iFMS has outstanding regional expertise in the North Sea and Baltic Sea region and Indonesia (Indo-Pacific), as well as the topics of critical infrastructure, digitalization, and maritime resilience.
The iFMS team is led by Prof. Dr. Gary S. Schaal as executive academic director and Dr. Julian Pawlak as coordinator.
contact us: [email protected]