MACC 2004: Multi-Agency Craft Conference set for June 15-17

One of the more unique conferences — the Multi Agency Combat Craft (MACC 2004) — is set to take place again this month. MACC provides a forum for open exchange and discussion about boat and craft between Government agencies and the maritime community. In addition to topical conferences and an exhibition venue, a unique aspect of MACC are the numerous in-water boat demonstrations. The primary focus of MACC is the dialog between the DoD and other Government agencies on common issues unique to boats and craft in their service. The types of craft discussed range from Army & Navy service craft, Navy and Coast Guard patrol boats, to Naval Special Warfare and Marine Corps combatant craft. Craft types include RIB's, patrol and insertion craft, landing craft, utility craft and special purpose craft.

The conference serves as a way to capitalize on the joint nature of today's military environment. The conference leverages larger returns from the combined efforts of the relatively small boat communities in each service. Within each service, boats and craft remain low on the funding priority list and the conference helps prevent different agencies from expending funds solving a common problem.

The MACC is a conference, not an exhibition. While an exhibition hall is offered, it is a secondary aspect of the conference. A quote from past attendees summarize this aspect of the conference well:

"It is an exceptional opportunity for the military and commercial communities to meet and discuss where the military is going and what its future needs may be. It also brings commercial firms together that may cooperate on joint projects to be able to provide the military with what it really needs and wants." For more information visit: www.boats.dt.navy.mil/macc