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Helicopter Technology Central and Eastern Europe
15 May - 16 May 2024
Helicopter Technology Central and Eastern Europe

The SAE Media Group are proud to present our 9th annual Helicopter Technology Central and Eastern Europe conference, on the 15 - 16 of May 2024, in Prague, Czech Republic.

The Helicopter Technology Central and Eastern Europe conference will provide you with the perfect platform to discover vital knowledge from the helicopter program managers and practitioners, as well as technical experts and system integrators.

Rotary platforms remain a key asset for supporting operations on land, sea, and air. But due to the increasing distinct pressures faced by legacy rotary platforms of the Central and Eastern Europe states, NATO’s Eastern Flank faces a critical juncture for maintaining effectiveness across all operational capabilities supported by their fleets.

Therefore, our focused regional conference provides a unique forum to ensure the continued sustainment, cost-effective modernisation, and interoperability of helicopter technology in the region.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta

Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta

Commander, 24th Air Transportation Base, Czech Air Force
Brigadier General Luca Piperni

Brigadier General Luca Piperni

Deputy Department Director, 4th Department, National Armaments Directorate , Italian MoD
Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger

Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger

Commander, Aviation Support Brigade, Austrian Armed Forces
Colonel Guido Krahl

Colonel Guido Krahl

Branch Chief Army Aviation, German Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre (ACCDC)
Colonel Stefan Okos

Colonel Stefan Okos

Commander 51st Helicopter Wing Prešov, Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic
Commodore Steve Jose

Commodore Steve Jose

Head, UK Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) Portfolio, UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen

Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen

Head of Army Aviation, Finnish Defence Force (FDF)

Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta

Commander, 24th Air Transportation Base, Czech Air Force
Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta

Brigadier General Luca Piperni

Deputy Department Director, 4th Department, National Armaments Directorate , Italian MoD
Brigadier General Luca Piperni

Basic Training, 1990-1995

Brigadier General Luca PIPERNI was born in Udine, Italy on 20th April 1972. He attended the Italian
Army Military Academy in Modena and Turin from 1990 to 1995 (172° Course) and graduated with
university degree in political science. He received his Commission as an Artillery 2nd Lieutenant in
1992. After that, upon completion of his Officer’s training, he was appointed as an Anti-Aircraft
Artillery (AAA) 1st Lieutenant.

Experience,1995 - 1998/2000 - 2004/2013 - 2015/ 2019 - 2021

  • Helicopter Pilot, 1998 - 2000:
  • As a Company Grade Officer: Deputy Commander of an Anti-Aircraft Artillery battery while serving with 18th AAA Regiment "Sforzesca" in Rimini (1995-96)
  • Cadet platoon leader at the Military Academy of Modena (1996-1998)
  • Flight Squadron Commander at the 7th Army Aviation Regiment "Vega" in Rimini (2000-2004)
  • As a Field Grade Officer: Commander, 54th Army Aviation Group "Cefeo" of the 4th Army Aviation Regiment "Altair" (2013-2015) 
  • Commander of 4th Army Aviation Regiment "Altair" in Bolzano (Sept. 2019- Apr. 2021).

Staff Activities, 2004 - 2013/ 2015 - 2018/ 2021:

  • 2004-2006: upon completion of the Army Staff Officers course in Turin, he was assigned to the
  • Army General Staff in Rome where he served as a Staff Officer of Personnel Department.
  • 2009-2011: he served as a Staff Officer of Joint Center of Modelling & Simulation, Defence General
  • Staff.
  • 2011-2013: upon completion of the Army Senior Staff Officers course in Rome, he served as a Staff
  • Officer of the Army General Staff Planning and Finance Office.
  • 2015-2018: he was posted to the Cabinet Office of the Ministry of Defence, where he served as
  • Head of Section and Division Chief of Military Policy Office.
  • Apr.- Nov. 2021 he was assigned to the Operational Land Forces Command to conduct the pre deployment training for the position of DCOM of the NATO KFOR Mission.
  • Courses, Assignments, and Operations Carried Out Abroad: Commander (2002 and 2003). In 2003 he attended the Captain Aviation Career Course at the USAACE in Ft. Rucker, Alabama. From 2006 to 2009 he served as a Staff Officer in the C4I Division – Technology Coordination Branch at NATO Allied Command Transformation in Norfolk, Virginia (USA). From Jun. 2018 to Aug. 2019 he served as Task Force ITALAIR Commanding Officer and Italian National Contingent Commander in Naqoura within UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon. From nov. 2021t o nov. 2022 he served as Deputy Commander of the NATO KFOR mission.

Current Position: Deputy Director of the 4Th Department of the Italian Secretariat General of Defence and National Armaments Directorate.

Personal Data

Married to Mrs. Daniele. He has a son, Matteo, 17 years old.
 

Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger

Commander, Aviation Support Brigade, Austrian Armed Forces
Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger

Marital status: Married, 1 adult daughter
Residence: Upper Austria and Kubschuetz, Germany
Civilian schooling: Primary, secondary school, high school, studies in political science and sociology.

Joined the armed forces: 1983, became an officer in 1984
Rank: Brigadier General since 2022
Military schooling: Theresian Military Academy in Wr. Neustadt (Bachelor’s Degree, 1984-1987), Flying School in Zeltweg and Langenlebarn, National Defence Academy in Vienna (Master’s Degree, 1994-1997), Staff officers logistics course of the French Army in Metz/France (1998), US Air War College in Montgomery/Alabama (Master’s Degree, 2000-2001), NATO Defense College in Rome/Italy (2013), top management course on Basics of Business Economics (2015).

Key positions during military career: Helicopter pilot since 1987, instructor pilot since 1990, different staff positions in 1st Helicopter Wing, G2/Air Division (1997), G4/Air Division 1997 till 2000, National Contingent Commander AUCON/KFOR in Kosovo (1999), Chief of planning division/Austrian International Peace Support Command (2000), MOD Air Staff (2001), Head of operations/plans/training division/Austrian Air Force 2002 till 2006, Commander 3rd Engineer Battalion 2009 till 2010, several times Commander Austrian Helicopter and Aviation Detachment EUFOR/ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Commander Air Support Brigade (2019), Chief Plans and Training Division and Deputy Chief of Expert Staff Air (2020), Deputy Director Military Aviation Division/Ministry of Defence.

Present position: Commander Aviation Brigade, Austrian Armed Forces

Responsibility: Planning, decision making and guidance for the preparation and execution of Supporting Air Operations and development of regulations for peace and wartime.
Duties include: Planning, management, supervision and consultation in above mentioned areas as well as advising highest military and political decision makers on mission related issues.

Additional tasks (amongst others) included: G3/Plans in MNB(S)/KFOR, AOCDir for Air Defence Operations.
During exercises A4/CJFACC, A3/CJFACC, J3/AirOps/CJFLCC, CO AOCC, observer of EDA HELIEX in GAP/France 2009, evaluator of Aviation Task Force and Airspace Management during European Advance 2010.
MoD representative at the Austrian Aeroclub Executive Board and the AEJPT Steering Committee.
Sub-project Manager/Operations for the C-130K, F-5E, Eurofighter, Jet Trainer and Multi-Purpose Helicopter programmes. Sub-project Manager/Training for the Cooperation in the Alpine Triangle project.

Accumulated more than 3,500 active flying hours, is currently examiner and instructor pilot on Agusta Bell 212MLU and AW169B. Chief of the Implementation Team for the Light Multi-Purpose Helicopter System AW169MA.

Hobbies: Table tennis, motorsports, computer technology, travelling.
 

Captain Patrick Rocha

SAR Pilot EH-101 Merlin, 751 Squadron, Portuguese Air Force
Captain Patrick Rocha

Colonel (Ret) Stephane Le-Floch

Senior Combat Marketing Segment Manager, Airbus Helicopters
Colonel (Ret) Stephane Le-Floch

Col (Ret) Stéphane Le Floch joined the French Army Aviation in 1990.
He has served in the French military for 28 years.
His early assigments include postings to a GAZELLE 20mm Gun Squadron belonging to the 1 st Combat Helicopters Regiment then in a COUGAR UH Squadron.
Assigned to the 4 th Special Operation Army Regiment, he took command of the 1 st Special Operation Squadron fitted with PUMA and COUGAR helicopters.
Throughout 15 years spent in operational units, he was deployed in BOSNIA, IVOIRY COAST and AFGHANISTAN.
In 2009, he attended the French Staff College course and then joined the headquarters of the Airmobile Brigade as head of G3. During this period, he took part to operations in LIBYA, SOMALIA and MALI.
In 2013, he became Commanding Officer of the Combat Training Army Aviation Base and finished his military career in charge of collaborative combat issues.
After a first experience, working for SAFRAN HELICOPTER ENGINES as head of the training centre for the EUROPE-MIDDLE EAST-AFRICA regions, he is now in charge of the strategic marketing for AIRBUS Combat Military Range.

Colonel Guido Krahl

Branch Chief Army Aviation, German Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre (ACCDC)
Colonel Guido Krahl
  • 01.07.1986 entering military service
  • 1989 - 1993 university of armed forces Munich;
  • Diploma in computer science
  • 1993 - 2001 section lead (BO 105P) antitank helicopter regiment 16 in Celle
  • 2001 - 2004 flight lead (BO 105P) antitank helicopter regiment 36 in Fritzlar
  • 2004 - 2006 squadron commander (BO 105P) antitank helicopter regiment 36 in Fritzlar
  • 2006 - 2008 S3 staff officer and deputy battaillion commander antitank helicopter bataillion 361 in Fritzlar
  • 2008 - 2010 speaker for air manoeuvre affairs and S3 staff officer, army concept development centre in Cologne
  • 2011 - 2013 head of G4 department, air manoeuvre brigade 1 in Fritzlar
  • 2013 - 2015 chief of staff, international helicopter training centre in Bückeburg
  • 2015 - 2017 speaker for air manoeuvre affairs, army command I 1 (1) in Strausberg
  • 2017 - 2021 head of branch EMAR realization, army command in Strausberg
  • Since 2021 head of branch army aviation, army concept development centre in Cologne
  • Since 2021 Chairman NATO HISWG (helicopter interservice working group)

Colonel Krešimir Ražov

Commander, 93rd Wing, Croatian Air Force
Colonel Krešimir Ražov

Colonel Krešimir Ražov was born in Zadar on the 16th of October, 1974. He joined the Air Force in 1993 and simultaneously studied at the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Transportation Sciences where he graduated in 1998. Upon graduation, he recieved his wings, became helicopter pilot and got commissioned as 2nd Lt on May 28th 1998. On 5th August 2021, he was promoted to Colonel. During two semesters at the Faculty of Philosophy in Zadar in 1999 he successfully completed Pedagogical-Psychological and Didactic-Metodical education as well as Instructor Pilot training school.
As a military pilot he logged more than 3000 flight hours, most of it as an Instructor Pilot on helicopters Bell-206B Jet Ranger III and OH-58D Kiowa Warrior. He is qualified as a Flight Instructor, Maintenance Test Pilot and an Aerobatic-demo pilot on both types, as well as the official evaluator and examiner of the Ministry of Defence on both types.
His military command and control experience goes from Flight Commander, Squadron Commander, AFB Commander and Wing Commander.
He graduated from croatian Air Command and Staff College in 2015 and croatian War college in 2020.
For his performance was highly awarded and commended from diferent levels of AF Headquaters as well as from the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces and the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Croatia.
He is married and the father of 16 years old daughter.

Colonel Miroslav Šajban

Chief of Helicopter and Transport A/C Section, Forces Development Division, Ministry of Defence Czech Republic
Colonel Miroslav Šajban

Col Miroslav Šajban is established as Chief of Helicopter and Transport A/C Section, Forces Development division of the Czech MoD, Chief of Helicopter and Transport A/C Aviation in Prague.
Col Miroslav Šajban began pilot training at Pardubice Air force base in 1999. He was established as helicopter pilot in 2000. He has served as an instructor, an evaluator, display pilot and instructor pilot in the Czech Air Force’s Mi-35 helicopter since 2011. In Afghanistan, he flew the Mi-35 as instructor and evaluator in 2011, in 2013 and in 2015. He was the deputy commander of the Czech 4th AAT in 2011, the commander of the Czech 9th AAT in 2013 and the commander of 438th AEAS in 2015.
Col Miroslav Šajban owns commercial pilot license for helicopters. He is instructor and fly Robinson R-22 and R-44. His hobbies are sport (running, soccer), aviation, movies and books.
Col Miroslav Šajban lives in Vladislav, The Czech Republic with his wife, Monika Šajbanová, and their three sons, Marek, Matyas and Timothy.

Colonel Pierre Madej

Capability Development Coherence Officer, French Air and Space Force
Colonel Pierre Madej

OVERVIEW

  • Born on January 15th, 1973 in Lille (59)
  • Married, father of two
  • Graduated from the Ecole de l'Air in 1994
  • Licensed as a helicopter pilot in May 1998
  • 3000 hours of flight time

CAREER

  • 1998 - BA 114 Aix les Milles : Helicopter Squadron 5/67 "Alpilles« - pilot
  • 2001 - BA 125 Istres : Helicopter Squadron 5/67 "Alpilles« - pilot
  • 2002 - BA 701 Toulouse Francazal : Helicopter Crew Training Centre 00.341 "Maurienne« - instructor
  • 2004 - EALAT Le Luc: Ecole de l’Aviation Légère de l’Armée de Terre, Air section leader 00.324
  • 2008 - Ecole Militaire: Collège interarmées de défense (French War College) 16th Class
  • 2009 - BA 128 Metz Frescaty : Second in command of CIEH 00.341 "Maurienne
  • 2011 - BA 115 Orange: Commander of CIEH 00.341 « Colonel Alexis Santini »
  • 2013 - Ilôt Saint Germain then Balard : Armed Forces General Staff
  • 2019 - BA 106 Bordeaux-Mérignac: Air Base Commander
  • 2021 - PARIS BALARD: French Air and Space Staff

DETACHMENTS

  • 2000 and 2002 : Gabon, Fennec pilot at Libreville Air Detachment
  • 2010 : Afghanistan, operation PAMIR, air deputy of the joint helicopter battalion

PROMOTION

  • Colonel : 01/06/2016

DECORATIONS

  • Knight of the Legion of Honour
  • Officer of the National Order of Merit
  • Aeronautic Medal

Colonel Ryan Kendall

Commander, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, US Army Europe
Colonel Ryan Kendall

Colonel Stefan Okos

Commander 51st Helicopter Wing Prešov, Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic
Colonel Stefan Okos

Commissioned in 1997 and graduated of Air Force Academy, Košice, Slovakia in 2002 as an engineer of electrical systems than I went over flight training.
I have flown the Mi-24, Mi-17, Schweizer, Bell-206, nowadays UH-60M and currently I am an active instructor, display pilot with over 2700 hours.

Commander Mauro Ghezzi

Studies and Programs Office, Ships Interface Section Leader, Naval Aviation Department, Italian Navy
Commander Mauro Ghezzi

Commander GHEZZI was born in Rome on August 10th, 1979. After the Scientific High School in Rome, he attended the Italian Naval Academy from 1999 to 2005, graduating in Political Science with a thesis on the Argentina’s economic crisis.
After graduation, he was selected as naval aviator and trained with the US Navy flight schools in Florida and Texas from 2005 and 2007 earning both airplane and helicopter wings. Back to Italy, he was assigned to the 1st Helicopter Squadron stationed in Luni (SP) where he transitioned to the AW-101 “merlin” and trained in Special Operations air support, including tactical transport, low level and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) flights.
From 2007 to 2012 he served in the 1st Helicopter Squadron as Equipment and Weapon section leader and Head of the Special Operations Department. During this period ,in the rank of Lieutenant, he was deployed twice in Afghanistan with “ISAF” and took part in Operation “Unified Protector” in 2011 during the Libyan crisis onboard Italian Aircraft Carrier Garibaldi. In 2012 he attended the “normal course” at the Italian Naval Staff College in Venice.
In 2013 he commanded the coastal patrol ship ITS Staffetta.
From 2014 to 2017 he was assigned to the Italian Navy Fleet Air Arm in Rome as Operation Officer.
In his role he took an active part in coordinating all ITA Navy air assets in central Mediterranean during the first migrant crisis with Operations “Mare Sicuro” and “Sophia”. In October 2015 he attended the “Information Operations” Course at the NATO School of Oberammergau (Germany).
From 2017 he is assigned to the Italian Navy General Staff in Rome in the Naval Aviation Department to serve as Regulations and Standardization Office and then as Joint Strike Fighter Project Officer from October 2018.
In 2019 he graduated with a Master’s degree in “Strategic Studies and International Security” form “Ca Foscari” University in Venice.
His honours and decorations include:
? Long Service Cross;
? Long Air Navigation silver Medal;
? US Naval Aviator badge;
? Italian Sport badge;
? Civil Protection Medal of Merit;
? Commemorative cross for Afghanistan Operations;
? NATO ISAF Medal;
? Commemorative badge of Operation “Unified Protector” Libya;
? Merit ribbon for personnel of the Navy General Staff.
Commander GHEZZI has flown a total of 1000 flight hours in aircraft and helicopters; he is married with Sara and has two children, Tiziano (9) and Bianca (4). He particularly enjoys TV series, music, hiking and escape rooms; his favourites sports are horse riding, skiing, diving and soccer.

Commodore Steve Jose

Head, UK Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) Portfolio, UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
Commodore Steve Jose
  • 35 years of service in the Royal Navy
  • Delivered Military Operations, all over the world as an engineer and pilot.
  • Held Chief Engineer roles for Helicopters, Fast Jets, Multi-engine and uncrewed systems.
  • Pilot/Test Pilot with 2500 flying hours across 35 types/marks of aircraft and over 1500 Deck Landings.
  • In the last 3 years, have worked in the UK ‘Defence Equipment & Support’ delivering large Rotary Wing support contracts and capability upgrades.
  • Took over as Head of the UK Military Flight Training portfolio in Oct 23.

CW5 Shawn Johnston

Directorate Analysis and Preventions - Aviation Expert, US Army Combat Readiness Center
CW5 Shawn Johnston

CW5 Shawn Johnston is from North Vernon, Indiana. He graduated from Jennings Co High school where he was President of the FFA and Captain of the Varsity Wrestling team. He joined the Army in 1993 serving in the 501st MP Co. at Bad Kreutznach, GE as a light wheel vehicle and a power
generation mechanic. Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science from Austin Peay State University (APSU).
Johnston qualified in the CH-47D/F and graduated from the Aviation Safety Officer course/Maintenance Officer courses. He is a Capability and Training Developer, completing the Army Basic and Small group instructor courses.
After serving in Operation Joint Endeavour in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Johnston transitioned to the Indiana National Guard serving in the 681st MEDEVAC as a UH-1 maintainer. In 2002, Johnston was selected for IERW and upon completion was assigned 7-101st where he served as a pilot in command, flight lead and the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, Aviation Life Support Equipment Officer (ALSE), deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2010, he was assigned to 110th Aviation Brigade serving as the CH-47 D/F academics chief and the brigade academics standardization instructor. In 2013 Johnston was reassigned to 3-2 General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB) as a mission pilot, unit trainer and aviation safety officer. In 2014, he was reassigned to 6-101st GSAB as the Battalion Aviation Safety Officer (BNASO) transitioning to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade Aviation Safety Officer (CAB ASO) in 2015 deploying to Afghanistan. In 2017, he was reassigned to Capability Development Integration Directorate (CDID) and Aviation Enablers-Requirements Determination Directorate serving as the Air Crew Integrated Systems (ACIS) Division Chief. In 2021, Johnston was reassigned to the United States Army Combat Readiness Center (USACRC) where he serves as a flight safety technician and the Senior Warrant Officer for the Safety Center. Shawn is also a sitting member of the Aviation System Readiness Division, Cueing and Symbology Endorsement board and consults numerous other aviation human systems integration boards/studies and research.
Johnston’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Joint Service Commendation medal Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Award, National Defense Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War of Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, Korean Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge, and Army Master Aviator Badge.

Kevin Luxford

NGRC Principal Technical Officer, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
Kevin Luxford

Kevin was technically trained and qualified as an avionics aerospace engineer by UK Ministry of Defence in the early 1990s and, in his early career, reinvested these skills in a wide range of UK MoD posts including aircraft depth maintenance and Engineering Authority roles. He went on to develop extensive experience in all phases of acquisition for a diverse range of aircraft, avionics, software and ground-based systems in the defence environment, primarily in the rotary wing domain including Lynx, Sea King and Apache.

He is highly experienced in complex international programmes, contributing several years to the development and introduction to service of the multi-national A400M tactical transport aircraft while working at OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) in the 2010s.

Returning to UK defence in 2019, he was Principal Project Manager at UK MoD Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl) responsible for delivery of a range of Air Systems research projects, specifically focussed on identifying and exploiting novel concepts and technologies for future rotorcraft and tactical aviation capabilities. Now employed at NATO Support & Procurement Agency (NSPA) since 2023, Kevin is the Technical Leader for the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) programme.

Kresimir Razov

Commander, 93rd Wing, Croatian Air Force
Kresimir Razov

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Paolo Trotta

CEO & Founder, Mission Systems SA
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Paolo Trotta

Paolo “Tomahawk” Trotta was born on July 31st 1981 in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
Paolo was accepted into the Italian Army Military Academy and attended it for five years in 1999.
After the Military Academy, Paolo was commissioned as a cavalry officer in the Italian Army and deployed within tank and RECCE units where he obtained the JTAC qualification.
Paolo was trained in several NATO countries achieving different qualifications including the one as Instructor of Commando Techniques from the French Commando Training Centre (CNEC);
Later, Paolo qualified as an Air Cavalry officer and served within the United States Army Aviation and graduated as an US Army Aviator.
Paolo graduated from the École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP Europe) with an Executive Master in Business Administration with First-Class Honour from the Chamber of Commerce of Paris, publishing the business model of what would than become Mission Systems SA and which was adopted by the European Defence Agency (EDA) to further innovate training and simulation. “Transforming European military training. How military simulation can save lives”.

Experiences:
Operational activity absorbed many years of Paolo’s career within different US, NATO and UN coalition forces leading airmobile units.
During his service, he lead different units within kinetic operations and his first aim was always to bring everybody home while ensuring mission success.
Paolo witnesses several causalities within NATO and US units, being deeply involved in operations characterized by Troops in Contact (TIC).
In the last part of his military career, Paolo served as project supervisor within the Test Pilot Centre of the Italian Army Aviation and followed several programs, including the Full Operational Capability of the NH-90 helicopter in Afghanistan and the development of the new AH-229.
Paolo created and developed several technologies and obtained different patents, while he was still deployed and those minimum viable products became what today is the suite of innovation that Mission Systems SA is deploying within the sector. From Command and Control to Modelling and Simulation, Paolo packaged and realized the suite of Mission Systems’ software with a clear objective: Empowering Fighters’ Tactical Initiative.

Mission:
The main requirement within the product developed had one single aspect in mind: operational use and experiences. Engineering development was driven directly by the complex operations experienced by Paolo and his team within modern battlefields, aiming to reduce collateral damages and ensure mission success.
“Missions can be successful with no or reduced collateral damages, when plan and rehearsal are detailed, achievable anytime, anywhere, and crystal clear within the mind of operators”.

Current position:
Today Paolo is the founder and CEO of Mission Systems SA that developed since several years the powerful Mission Combat Architecture (MCA) software suite in service within different NATO/US units and allies.

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Saint Lehtinen

COO, Pathfinder Systems Inc.
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Saint Lehtinen

Saint Lehtinen recently retired from USAF Special Forces as a combat aviation advisor specializing in COIN/FID and IW. He is rotary and fix wing qualified.

Lieutenant Colonel Andrius Stuknys

Commander, Maintenance Depot, Lithuanian Air Force
Lieutenant Colonel Andrius Stuknys

DATE OF BIRTH: 1978-01-19


PLACE OF BIRTH: Joniskis, Lithuania.


FAMILY: Married, has a son and a daughter.


EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

 

  • 2000 m. Kaunas Technology University, bachelor's degree in electrical engineering
  • 2002 m. Kaunas Technology University, master's degree in electronics engineering
  • 2003 m. General Jonas Zemaitis Lithuanian Military Academy, commanders course
  • 2005 m. General Adolf Ramanauskas Warfare Training Centre, environmental specialist courses
  • 2006 m. General Jonas Zemaitis Lithuanian Military Academy, Air Force Captain Course
  • 2009 m. Polytechnic Institute of Turin, Italy, the International Aeronautical Engineering II level specialized master studies
  • 2009 m. EAS training facility in Italy, logistical support course
  • 2010 m. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, the maintenance organization certifying staff human factor training
  • 2011 m. Siauliai University, master's degree in energetic engineering
  • 2013 m. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, aircraft fuel tanks operating courses
  • 2014 m. Aviation factory “Alenia Aermacchi”, aircraft C-27J service managers course
  • 2014 m. Aviation factory “Airbus Helicopters”, helicopter AS-365 Dauphin T4 level course
  • 2015 m. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Part - 145 and Part - M courses
  • 2019 m. Siauliai University, master's degree in mechanic engineering
  • 2020 m. Baltic Defence College, Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC).

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

  • 2003 06 26 - 2004 09 30 Air Force I Aviation Base technical group, aircraft maintenance and periodic work, the head of radio-electronic equipment repair and periodic maintenance section
  • 2004 10 01 - 2007 10 27 LAF Armament and Equipment Repair Depot, avionics repair works and periodic maintenance department, the chief of radio-electronic equipment section
  • 2009 08 01 - 2012 09 30 LAF Armament and Equipment Repair Depot, Quality Control Department, engineer of radio-electronic equipment
  • 2012 10 01 - 2014 10 26 LAF Armament and Equipment Repair Depot Technic repair and maintenance squadron commander
  • 2014 10 27 - 2018 09 17 Deputy Commander of LAF Armament and Equipment Repair Depot
  • 2018 09 17 - 2019 08 12 LAF Engineering service, senior engineer for radio communication and navigation
  • 2020 07 10 Commander of LAF Armament and Equipment Repair Depot

 

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hoogsteder

Progam Manager SOFAIR, Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)
Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hoogsteder

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hoogsteder's military journey commenced in 2004 with the Royal Netherlands Air Force, where he soared as an AS-532U2 Cougar pilot within the esteemed 300 Squadron of the Defence Helicopter Command. Embarking on numerous deployments to regions like Afghanistan and Somalia from 2007, he displayed unwavering commitment and expertise. Rising through the ranks, he assumed pivotal roles, serving as a flight commander and eventually becoming a lead weapons instructor, harnessing his skills to shape future aviators. Transitioning to staff positions in 2017 marked a new chapter, where he meticulously orchestrated major plans at both the Air Force headquarters and the Ministry of Defence. His visionary leadership steered the inception of the first special operations helicopter unit, a testament to his strategic foresight and operational acumen. Presently, as the program manager, he spearheads transformative initiatives within the Air Force, delineating the path towards a dynamic and adaptable force. From defining the prerequisites for new helicopters to orchestrating comprehensive changes in infrastructure, logistics, and IT, Lieutenant Colonel Hoogsteder embodies the epitome of excellence in military leadership, ensuring the seamless transition of the 300 Squadron to a formidable 300 Special Operations Squadron, poised for the challenges of tomorrow's missions.

Lieutenant Colonel Emiliano Pellegrini

Attack Helicopter and Air Land Integration, Joint Air Power Competency Centre (JAPCC)
Lieutenant Colonel Emiliano Pellegrini

Lieutenant Colonel Emiliano PELLEGRINI was commissioned in the Italian Army in 1990, when he was admitted to the Italian Army Military Academy. He was assigned to 5 the Attack Helicopter Regiment “RIGEL” where served as Squadron Commander and Operations Officer. During this period, he was qualified as Attack helicopter pilot with NVG (Night Vision Googles) and HIRNS (Helicopter Infrared Navigation System) licence. He has flown fixed wing SF-260, multirole helicopters AgustaBell-206, AgustaBell-205, as well as, the AgustaWestland A-129 “Mangusta” attack helicopter.

From 2012 to 2016 was Commander of 34 Helicopters Group Squadron “TORO”, after then he had been assigned to NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Italy (NRDC-ITA) in G3-AIR Branch both as planning and operation officer. He has been deployed to Middle East (Iraq, Geordan, Afghanistan).

He is currently stationed at the JAPCC as the Attack Helicopter on Air-Land Operations Planning and Integration, Airborne, and Airmobile Operations SME (Subject Matter Expert) in the Combat Air Branch.

Lieutenant Colonel Emmanouil Pouliopoulos

384 SAR Squadron Commander, Hellenic Air Force
Lieutenant Colonel Emmanouil Pouliopoulos

 Lieutenant Colonel Emmanouil Pouliopoulos, was born in Reutlingen of West Germany in 1977 and is currently leaving in Magoula Athens.

 
In 1996, he joined the Hellenic Airforce Academy and graduated in 2000 as a 2nd Lieutenant. He was first assigned in 114CW as a jet fighter pilot in Mirage F1CG and in 2003 he was assigned in 112CW, as a SAR Helicopter pilot.
 
From August of 2023, he is the Commander of 384 SAR Sqn, responsible for maintaining efficiency and readiness to a high standard with the appropriate organization, personnel training and maintenance of the available means, in order to assume and successfully carry out Search and Rescue operations (SAR), Combat Search and Rescue operations (CSAR) and other Missions for the Common and Social Good, whenever required according to HAF’s Operational Plans.
 
He has over 2800 of flight hours in Helicopters (AS-332C1, AW109ST & AB-205) & over 500 in fixed wings (Mirage F1CG, T-2, T-37 & T-41). He is a Test pilot, a Flight instructor, a Flight Examiner and an ICAO inspector for the Hellenic Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC).
 
Besides his flight duties, he has also assigned as: 
The Aide-de-camp of HAF Support Commander, 
Flight Safety Officer in “Andreas Papandreou” Air Force Base in Pafos Cyprus, 
Head of “Operational Training” of the HAF General Staff, 
National Representative to the Air to Air Refueling Working Group (NATO AARWG), 
National Representative and a Steering Group Member, in the Tactical Leadership Program (TLP).
 

Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen

Head of Army Aviation, Finnish Defence Force (FDF)
Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen

Career:

  • 1999-starting as a conscript in Air force.
  • Fixed wing trainers,
  • MD-500
  • MI-8
  • NH90
  • Pilot, PIC, IP, FL
  • Chief of NH90 Company, Helicopter Battalion
  • High Staff Officer Course, FIN Defense University
  • Chief of Army Flight Training, Army Command
  • Commanding Officer of Helicopter Battalion, Utti Jager Regiment
  • Chief of Army Aviation (NH90 HOD), Army Command

 

Lieutenant Colonel Markus Loennig

NGRC Senior Technical Officer, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
Lieutenant Colonel Markus Loennig

LTC Loennig joined the German Army in 1993 and after completing officers training and basic flight training on the Alouette II in 1997, he studied Educational Sciences at the German Armed Forces University in Munich. Following conversion to type and tactics training (Bo105P) he became section lead in 2003 in the Attack Helicopter Regiment 36. Serving as a Company Commander for 2 years, he rejoined his flying duty until 2007, after which he enjoyed serving in the Attack Helicopter Regiment 26 as a Flight Lead, IP and Tactics-Instructor. Transferring to the Army Concept and Capability Center in 2013, he became responsible for the Capability Development of several aspects for the DEU Army Aviation and was tasked to develop and manage the requirements for the DEU TIGER Mk III Program.

On completion of a Master’s Degree in Modelling and Simulation at the University of Central Florida from 2017-2019, he returned to the Army Concept and Capability Center where he managed the Capability Development of Communications, MUM-T and Armaments.

Since 2023 he is supporting the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) programme at NSPA in Luxembourg as a DEU Voluntary National Contribution with focus on operational aspects.
His deployments were: 2010 NATO KFOR as Field Camp Commander and 2012 NATO ISAF, CJ3 Chief Plans.

Lieutenant Colonel Miha Vencelj

Commander, 151st Rotary Wing Squadron, Air Force and Air Defence, Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF)
Lieutenant Colonel Miha Vencelj

Lieutenant Colonel Miha Vencelj has 27 years of service in the Slovenian Armed Forces. A graduate engineer in mechanical engineering, specializing in aviation - pilot. Currently serving as the commander of the 151st RW Squadron.

Lieutenant Colonel Phillip Button

Future Combat Aviation, Military Capability Plans, Futures Directorate, British Army
Lieutenant Colonel Phillip Button

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in physics and an Army Reserve commission, Lt Col Button became a systems engineer modernising Land Rover production. On changing to a military career, he commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1995 and joined 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. Following previous reserve service with the Pack Howitzer, he enjoyed working with both the Light Gun and AS90 as a Command Post and Reconnaissance Officer.

Fulfilling a long-held desire to fly, he completed the Army Pilots Course in 1998 and joined 3 Regiment Army Air Corps as a reconnaissance pilot flying the Gazelle and subsequently as a VIP pilot with a reserve unit.

On completion of a master’s degree in electronic warfare, Lt Col Button served with the Air and Space Warfare Centre and the Defence Equipment and Support organisation. As a Trials Officer for Uncrewed Aerial Systems, he developed the Army’s requirements for Miniature UAS and brought several systems in to service. Other staff appointments included flying training development, Chief of Staff HQ AAC and, as a Capability and Acquisition specialist, managing the Army’s Equipment Programme. He is currently responsible for developing future crewed and uncrewed aviation requirements.

Lieutenant Colonel Till Vromans

Air Development Division Branch Head Training & Exercise, NATO Allied Special Operation Forces Command (SOFCOM)
Lieutenant Colonel Till Vromans

Section: NSHQ Duty Title: Air Development Division / Branch Head Air Training & Exercise

Previous Assignment: DEU Air Operations Command, DEU SOAC, Director J-35, Kalkar (DEU)

Professional Experience Summary:
1996 – 1997: Army Air Defence Btn 7/ Basic Training
1997 – 1999: Army Aviaton School/ Basic Helicopter Pilot Training
1999 – 2013: Army Aviation Btn 6 & 30/ Helicopter Pilot Bell UH-1D “Huey”
2000: Army Officers Academy Degree
2011 – 2017: Instructor Pilot Bell UH-1D “Huey”/ H145M“LUH-SOF”
2013 – 2021: European Defence Agency/ Helicopter Weapon Instructor
2014 – 2015: DEU Rapid Response Division/ J-3 Air RW Tasking
2015 – 2017: DEU Air Force Helicopter Wing 64/ OT&E Pilot H145M“LUH-SOF”
2017 – 2021: European Defence Agency/ Chief Instructor Helicopter Tactics
2017 – 2019: DEU Air Operations Command/ J5 SME RW SOF Air
2017 – 2019: DEU Air Operations Command/ DEU JFAC DepDir JPRCC
2019: DEU Leadership Academy/ Staff Officer Degree
2019 – 2020: DEU Air Operations Command/ Project Group SOATG HQ (DEU)
2021 – 2022: DEU Air Operations Command/ Chief J-35 SOATG HQ (DEU)
2023: DEU Air Operations Command/ Chief J-35 DEU SOAC

Deployments:
2003 / 2010 NATO KFOR (Kosovo)
2012 NATO ISAF TAC RC North Kunduz (Afghanistan)

Lieutenant Colonel Zoltan Szili

Deputy Commander, Multinational Helicopter Training Centre (MHTC)
Lieutenant Colonel Zoltan Szili

Positions:
2023- MHTC (Multinational Helicopter Training Centre), Deputy
Commander
2022 Hungarian Defence Forces (HDF) Air Force Command, Training section
2022 HDF Air Inspectorate, Training section
2019 HDF General Staff, Training Directorate (Air)
2016 EDA (European Defence Agency), HEP (Helicopter Exercise Programme) CPT
(Core Planning Team) member
2015 HDF Joint Force Command, Air Operations and Training Department
2010 HDF 86. Szolnok Helicopter Base (SZHB), Air Operations and Training Branch,
chief of Combat Section (Deputy of Chief of Air Operations and Training
Branch)
2009 HDF 86. SZHB, Air Operations and Training Branch, Training Section, Chief
of Training Section
2007 HDF 86. SZHB, Attack Helicopter Battalion, training officer (Air)
2004 HDF 86. Szolnok Helicopter Wing (SZHW), Attack Helicopter Battalion, pilot
in command
2001 HDF Air Force Command, Training Department, Exercise Planning Branch,
planning officer (6 month)
1996 HDF 87. Bakony Combat Helicopter Wing, Attack Helicopter squadron, flight
chief gunner-pilot
1992 HDF 87. Bakony Combat Helicopter Wing, Attack Helicopter squadron, gunnerpilot
1988 – 1992 Szolnok Aviation Academy (2 years in the Soviet Union)

Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák

Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.
Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák

His Service experience began in 1983 as a helicopter pilot, from 1986 he took on a variety of command posts in the 11th Helicopter regiment such as Flight, Deputy Squadron and Squadron command roles. By 1993 He was Senior inspector – SO1 AVN, A3 Section, 3rd Tactical Air Force Corps HQ before 1997 when he was DACOS AIR, CZE Armed Forces Contingent HQ, SFOR, Bosnia-Herzegovina again returning to his previous role in 1999. He took on a variety of NATO roles including SO1 AVN, ACE Mobile Force (Land) Command, NATO, Heidelberg and DACOS J3Air –„Allied Harbor” operation, AFOR HQ, Albania.

 
After a number of other staff and command roles between 2002 and 2009 he reached the position of Deputy Chief of the Armed Forces Development & Operational Division; CZE Armed Forces General Staff taking full command from 2010 – 2012. On 8 May 2010 Promoted to the Brigadier General and by 2012 became Deputy Chief of the General Staff - Chief of Staff being promoted to the Major General on 28 October that year. By 2014 he was Deputy Minister of Defence for Acquisition before retiring from active and political service 2015 becoming Defence & Security Advisor to the Czech defense industry.
 

Major Jorge Liquito

AW119 Fleet Manager, Portuguese Air Force
Major Jorge Liquito

Mr Daniele Cucchi

Aviation Support Programme Manager, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
Mr Daniele Cucchi

Daniele Cucchi is the Aviation Support Programme Manager at the NATO Support and Procurement Agency.
He spent almost 40 years in the Italian Air Force, attending the Air Force Academy and graduating with a Master degree in Aeronautical Engineering.
During his career, he covered various roles dealing with fixed wing aircraft, rotorcraft and military jet engines, including international assignments.
Before joining NATO, he was responsible for the introduction into service of the new NH90 and CH-47F helicopters as the Director of the Regional Technical Office of Milan of the Italian Air Armaments and Airworthiness Directorate.
Daniele Cucchi left active duty 4 years ago with the rank of retired Brigadier General.

Mr Jas Hawker

Nation Flight Training Europe (NFTE) Principal Officer, Aviation Support Programme, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
Mr Jas Hawker

Jas Hawker is the Principal Officer NATO Flight Training Europe at the NATO Support and Procurement Agency.

Jas spent almost 30 years in the Royal Air Force and has amassed over 5000 flying hours on the Tornado and Hawk aircraft. He has experience of working in the UK Ministry of Defence and operational Headquarters in Afghanistan and the Middle East, and he is a graduate of the Australian Advanced Command and Staff College.

Prior to joining NSPA Jas was responsible for the management and delivery of flying training for the Royal Air Force.
 

Mr José Pablo Romera

Project Officer Rotary Wing, European Defence Agency (EDA)
Mr José Pablo Romera

José Pablo Romera began his career in 1998 graduating from the Spanish Army Academy as a military field Engineer. He finalised his Army helicopter pilot course in 2000 and he was posted during 5 years to the 3rd Manoeuvre Helicopter Battalion, deploying to Kosovo and Kyrgyzstan in the years 2000 and 2002.


Between the years 2005 and 2010, he was employed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), located in Bonn (Germany) to work as technical manager of the French/Spanish Tiger HAD helicopter, responsible for all the technical activities related to its development.
He returned to the organization during the period 2013 to 2017 as HAD Type Manager, with overall responsibility for the through life management of the Tiger HAD programme, in charge for the qualification of the Tiger HAD helicopter and the delivery of more than 30 helicopters to the French and Spanish Armed Forces.


From the year 2017, he has been working at the European Defence Agency (EDA) as Project Officer Rotary Wing, managing EDA helicopter programmes and new initiatives.


He graduated from the Spanish Defence College and he is a certified Project Manager Professional (PMP).


He is married and has 2 children.
 

Mr Neil Brannagan-Fuller

Senior Product Marketing Manager (Military), Leonardo Helicopters
Mr Neil Brannagan-Fuller

Neil joined Leonardo Helicopters in October 1998 after 9 years as an Army Aircraft Technician, as an operator and supervisor he deployed on operational deployments in Kuwait, Bosnia and Northern Ireland supporting rotary and fixed wing aircraft operations.

On joining Leonardo Neil spent 4 years as a supervisor within the manufacturing organisation working on a number of UK and Export contracts. Transferring to Customer Support Neil spent the next 18 years fulfilling a range of roles including Customer Support Manager for export customers and In Service Support Manager for the South African Defence Force based in Cape Town introducing the Lynx helicopter into Service.

On returning to Yeovil, Neil moved into Customer Support & Training Business Development team, as the Head of Customer Support Solutions providing new and existing military customers with holistic and bespoke support and training solutions, mission capability and Mid-life upgrades, whist travelling extensively to promote new sales of Leonardo rotary products.

Moving to Product Marketing during lockdown 2020 Neil’s focus moved to presenting the military portfolio in a more readily accessible digital environment, whilst ensuring the products meet the operational scenarios of today whilst planning for the capabilities of tomorrow.

Who should attend:

 National militaries:
• Air Force Officers
• Army and Naval Aviation Officers
• Air Base Officers
• Rotary Platform Engineers
• Procurement Officers


Industry:
• Aerospace Business seeking direct contact with regional decision-makers
• Aerospace developers and innovators seeking to understand the requirements and anticipate future developments in the markets

Air Force Commanders, Deputy Air Force Commanders and operational level Commanders of key helicopter programmes and air wings will be discussing high-level topics such as platform modernisation and upgrades, regional cooperation and interoperability, national security priorities, the challenges of integrating new platforms, and much more.

Reasons why you can't afford to miss this:

  • Unmatched direct access to Air Force and Army Rotary Platform Officers
  • A unique focus on multipurpose helicopter technology and joint force interoperability
  • Regional Perspectives regarding procurement, upgrades, maintenance, and training
  • High level discussions featuring technical managers and project engineers from military as well as industry tackling the key challenges which face helicopter technology production, procurement, utilisation, and maintenance
  • Informal networking time so you can gather insight from peers and colleagues also shaping and influencing regional helicopter programmes today

sponsors

Conference agenda

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8:00

Registration & Coffee

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8:50

Chair's Opening Remarks

Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

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9:00

Keynote Host Nation Opening Address - Reserved for Senior Representative, Air Force Command, Czech Air Force

Colonel Miroslav Šajban, Chief of Helicopter and Transport A/C Section, Forces Development Division, Ministry of Defence Czech Republic

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9:30

Ensuring a Battle-Ready Helicopter Capability to Support the ManoeuvristEnsuring a Battle-Ready Helicopter Capability to Support the Manoeuvrist Approach in Land Operations

Colonel Guido Krahl, Branch Chief Army Aviation, German Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre (ACCDC)

  • Aiding deterrence and effective operations through improvingGermany’s rotary wing heavy lift
  • Overhauling attack helicopter capabilities
  • Specific avionics and technical requirements demanded by the German manoeuvrist approach
  • Improving sustainment and availability – implementing lessons from theTiger programme
     
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    10:00

    Understanding the Future Battlefield with MUM-T

    Colonel (Ret) Stephane Le-Floch, Senior Combat Marketing Segment Manager, Airbus Helicopters

  • The battlefield is rapidly evolving under the influence of game changers. With the integration of UAS into combat scenarios, the future of military aviation will be characterized by the development of Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities for collaborative combat operations.
  • Drones, UAS, launched effects, loyal wingmen, the range of tools is wide but it holds immense potential for aviation and air force components worldwide.
  • Complementarity, replacement, transformation, what does it mean for the military operators and how Airbus Helicopters can support such a new capability. Let's share our views about this emerging landscape of MUM-Teaming in collaborative combat aviation.
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    10:30

    Morning Coffee

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    11:00

    Upgrading Italian Naval Rotary Wing Capabilities to Fulfil Contemporary Demands in the Maritime Theatre

    Commander Mauro Ghezzi, Studies and Programs Office, Ships Interface Section Leader, Naval Aviation Department, Italian Navy

     

  • Upgrade process of the Italian Navy Rotary Wing Backbone Fleet,
  • Fleet, Amphibious, and SOF support of the Italian Naval Aviation
  • Italian Rotary Wing Mission Training Centre: delivering a one-of-a-kind distributed simulator centre for state-of-the-art training
  • The future of the Italian maritime rotary drone
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    11:30

    Leonardo – Your Vertical Flight Capability Provider

    Mr Neil Brannagan-Fuller, Senior Product Marketing Manager (Military), Leonardo Helicopters

  • A step change in military helicopter capabilities
  • Enhanced platform solutions
  • Through life support and training programs
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    12:00

    Enhancing Multi-Purpose Platforms and Multi-National Cooperation for Austrian Rotary Wing Military Aviation

    Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger, Commander, Aviation Support Brigade, Austrian Armed Forces

  • Advantages provided by the AW169 LUH for improved fulfilment of Austrian rotary requirements
  • Bilateral cooperation with the Italian Armed Forces to prepare for maintenance of and training with the AW169 platform
  • Upgrading the Sikorsky S-70 and replacing the AB-212 platforms
  • Austrian contributions to Joint Operations and Exercise
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    12:30

    Networking Lunch

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    13:30

    Mission Combat Architecture (MCA): How to Empower Airmobile Assets with a Powerful, Innovative, and Cost Effective Architecture.

    Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Paolo Trotta, CEO & Founder, Mission Systems SA

  • GENESIS of the MISSION COMBAT ARCHITECTURE (MCA)
  • MCA: software planning, rehearsal, execution, after action review modules overview
  • Example of potential configurations and retrofit of existing or legacy assets
  • Operational example and usage of the MCA
  • End user's conclusions
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    14:00

    Operationalising Modern Platforms to Advance the Regeneration of Croatia's Rotary Force

    Colonel Krešimir Ražov, Commander, 93rd Wing, Croatian Air Force

  • Enhancing logistics to match the new demands of modern rotary technology integrated into the Air Force
  • Analysing data from ongoing procurement of new platforms and modernisation of legacy fleets
  • Providing vertical lift support to civilian authorities

     

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    14:30

    Networked Aircrew Training: Increasing Safety, Capability and Lethality

    Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Saint Lehtinen, COO, Pathfinder Systems Inc.

  • Overview on simulation and training from VR/AR/MR thru Full Motion Projection and Hybrid solutions.
  • How simulation fits - from part task training to full mission rehearsal and threat replication.
  • The whole team - networked pilots, rear-crew and the world.
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    15:00

    Afternoon Tea

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    15:30

    Utilising Public-Private Partnerships to Unlock Enhanced Possibilities for Aviator Training

    Commodore Steve Jose, Head, UK Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) Portfolio, UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)

  • Why tap into industry for training delivery?
  • Maintaining a cooperative relationship between military and industry partners
  • Combining live and synthetic training methodologies
  • Adapting culture and methodologies to the new aviator expectations
     
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    15:50

    Emergency Response Methodology - Task 1070

    CW5 Shawn Johnston, Directorate Analysis and Preventions - Aviation Expert, US Army Combat Readiness Center

  • Responding to EPs
  • Responding in context to the situation
  • Accidents that got us here
  • Fly the aircraft “FADEC-F”
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    16:10

    NATO Helicopter Support and Training

    Mr Jas Hawker, Nation Flight Training Europe (NFTE) Principal Officer, Aviation Support Programme, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

  • Update on rotary wing aspects of the NSPA Aviation Support Programme.
  • Introducing the NFTE HVP – history, status, vision
  • Highlighting current and future helicopter pilot training courses and resources
  • Preparing for manned-unmanned teaming with UAS platforms and pilots
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    16:30

    Joint Presentation: Update on the Status of the MHTC Development & EDA Transition

  • Reflecting on the EDA’s helicopter tactics and training courses
  • Next steps for the EDA in transition to new priorities
  • MHTC Achievements of fi rst year in operation
  • Lessons drawn for further improving the training of aviators and multinational forces in the MHTC
  • Mr José Pablo Romera, Project Officer Rotary Wing, European Defence Agency (EDA)

    Lieutenant Colonel Zoltan Szili, Deputy Commander, Multinational Helicopter Training Centre (MHTC)

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    16:50

    Joint Q&A: Meeting Challenges in Rotary Wing Training for Regional Militaries

  • Audience questions to focus session speakers
  • Speaker response to other focus session presentations
  • Reflections on regional progress and challenges in updating training
  • Commodore Steve Jose, Head, UK Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) Portfolio, UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)

    Mr José Pablo Romera, Project Officer Rotary Wing, European Defence Agency (EDA)

    Mr Jas Hawker, Nation Flight Training Europe (NFTE) Principal Officer, Aviation Support Programme, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

    Lieutenant Colonel Zoltan Szili, Deputy Commander, Multinational Helicopter Training Centre (MHTC)

    Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

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    17:10

    Applying the SOF approach: Driving a more Agile and Flexible RNAF to Better Prepare for a More Challenging and Unpredictable Environment

    Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hoogsteder, Progam Manager SOFAIR, Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)

  • Unpacking the RNAF SOF Approach
  • Analysing the security and operational environment – the need for greater agility and flexibility
  • Applying the RNAF approach to the prepare the RNAF
  • Applying the RNAF approach to improve regional & multinational SOF rotary force
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    17:30

    Exploring the Role of Helicopter SOF Units in an Environment of Near-Peer Strategic Competition

    Lieutenant Colonel Till Vromans, Air Development Division Branch Head Training & Exercise, NATO Allied Special Operation Forces Command (SOFCOM)

  • Utilising the unique capabilities of rotary platforms to facilitate the full contribution of SOF operations
  • The impact of operational and strategic shifts on the tasks and risks facing SOF forces
  • Adapting SOF aviation units to fully exploit technological opportunities
  • Furthering allied interoperability in the field of special operations
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    17:50

    Joint Q&A: Maximising Rotary Support for National and Multinational Elite and SOFOperations

  • Audience questions to focus session speakers
  • Speaker response to other focus session presentations
  • Reflections on regional progress and challenges in regional SOFCOM capabilities
  • Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hoogsteder, Progam Manager SOFAIR, Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)

    Lieutenant Colonel Till Vromans, Air Development Division Branch Head Training & Exercise, NATO Allied Special Operation Forces Command (SOFCOM)

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    18:00

    Chair's Closing Remarks and Close of Day One

    Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

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    7:50

    Registration & Coffee

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    8:20

    Chair's Opening Remarks

    Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

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    8:30

    Supporting Key Czech Military and Civilian Requirements with the Transport Helicopter Fleet

    Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta

    Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta, Commander, 24th Air Transportation Base, Czech Air Force

  • Where the transport rotary fleet fits into the Czech Air Force aims
  • Overcoming challenges for maintaining legacy platforms
  • Contributing to civilian requirements
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    9:00

    Overview of the Use of Attack Helicopters in the Ukrainian-Russian War (February 2023-February 2024)

    Lieutenant Colonel Emiliano Pellegrini, Attack Helicopter and Air Land Integration, Joint Air Power Competency Centre (JAPCC)

  • What has been reported on the use of attack helicopters in this period?
  • What were the major differences from the previous year?
  • Technological, Command and Control, and mission development adaptations
  • Analysis of the results obtained and conclusions
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    9:30

    NSPA Support in the Military Training Domain

    Mr Daniele Cucchi, Aviation Support Programme Manager, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

  • NSPA & Aviation Support Programme Overview
  • Procurement Regulations and Support Partnerships
  • Helicopter Fleets Support
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    10:00

    Reinforcing Helicopter Capabilities and Allied Interoperability to meet National and Regional Challenges

    Lieutenant Colonel Miha Vencelj, Commander, 151st Rotary Wing Squadron, Air Force and Air Defence, Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF)

  • Extending the operational capabilities of the air force through procuring the AW139M
  • Overview of the contribution of rotary platforms to JTAC Exercise Adriatic Strike 23
  • The contribution of rotary platforms to aiding national and regional disaster response
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    10:30

    Morning Coffee

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    11:00

    Maximising Availability and Usability of Lithuania’s New and Upgraded Rotary Wing Platforms

    Lieutenant Colonel Andrius Stuknys, Commander, Maintenance Depot, Lithuanian Air Force

  • Preparing air force technology and procedures to match the advanced capabilities of the UH-60M Black Hawk
  • Cooperation with the US Armed Forces to train aviators for new platforms.
  • Improving maintenance and logistics measures to increase robustness and effectiveness
  • Regional cooperation and interoperability measures
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    11:30

    French Air and Space Force Helicopters: A Vision for 2035 and More

    Colonel Pierre Madej, Capability Development Coherence Officer, French Air and Space Force

  • Enforcing 3D security
  • Ambition for High Intensity operations
  • Next generation helicopter
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    12:00

    Modernising Portuguese Rotary Wing Capabilities to Support Long Range SAR Operations in Challenging Environments

  • Overview of current Portuguese Air Force rotary wing capabilities
  • 751 Squadron Operation: overview and mission objectives
  • C2 and logistic demands for ultra-long range missions of Europe’s largest SAR area
  • Future plans and priorities
  • Major Jorge Liquito

    Major Jorge Liquito, AW119 Fleet Manager, Portuguese Air Force

    Captain Patrick Rocha

    Captain Patrick Rocha, SAR Pilot EH-101 Merlin, 751 Squadron, Portuguese Air Force

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    12:30

    Comprehensively Preparing Finnish Military Helicopters for High Intensity Joint Operations in the High North

    Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen, Head of Army Aviation, Finnish Defence Force (FDF)

  • Overview of the composition and posture of Army Aviation for peace and war
  • Specific challenges posed by the Finnish Operating Environment
  • Advancing Interoperability with NATO and Nordic Allies
  • Future Force Development
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    13:00

    Networking Lunch

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    14:00

    Sustaining and Advancing NATO Military Power in Europe through US Rotary Capability and Interoperability Measures

    Colonel Ryan Kendall

    Colonel Ryan Kendall, Commander, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, US Army Europe

  • US Army perspective on the contribution of rotary aviation to near-peer conflict
  • New capabilities provided by the AH-64E Version 6 Apache Guardians
  • 12th Combat Aviation Brigade measures to maximise European allied interoperability
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    14:30

    Meeting the Challenges of Maintaining Optimal Availability and Capability of Modernised Slovak Rotary Platforms

    Colonel Stefan Okos, Commander 51st Helicopter Wing Prešov, Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic

  • Procuring further equipment to refi ne the UH-60M to suit Slovak requirements
  • Further modernisation plans to fill capability gaps beyond the UH-60M
  • Working with the US military and national guard to build training andlogistics know-how
  • Completing the construction of a next-generation hanger
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    15:00

    The Role of 112CW Helicopters in Supporting Greek, EU and NATO Interests in the South-East Mediterranean Theatre

    Lieutenant Colonel Emmanouil Pouliopoulos, 384 SAR Squadron Commander, Hellenic Air Force

  • Eastern Mediterranean Brief Regional Analysis & Main Strategic Interests
  • Overview of 112 Combat Wing Capabilities to SAR/CSAR and MEDEVAC Missions
  • Mass Rescue Operations (MRO) Challenges
  • Commanders Operational Priorities
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    15:30

    Afternoon Tea

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    16:00

    Operationalising the NGRC

  • Introducing the ‘Concept of Operation’ of the NGRC
  • Exploiting new technological developments and opportunities for a future-proof platform
  • Cooperation with allied next-generation platform developments
  • Kevin Luxford, NGRC Principal Technical Officer, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

    Lieutenant Colonel Markus Loennig, NGRC Senior Technical Officer, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

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    16:20

    Incorporating Anticipated Operational Challenges and Technological Opportunities to Prepare Italy’s Rotary Wing Forces for Success in Future Combat

    Brigadier General Luca Piperni, Deputy Department Director, 4th Department, National Armaments Directorate , Italian MoD

  • Italian perspective on the NGRC, E-NGRT and other international programs.
  • Operational benefits from modernizing Italy's RW fleet by upgrading EH101s and NH-90s and replacing legacy platforms with the next-generation AW169 multi-role LUH.
  • Leveraging new platform development (NEES, NGFH) and legacy midlife upgrades (HH101 MLU, NH90 SWR3).
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    16:40

    Panel: Building Future-Proof Vertical Lift

  • Audience questions to focus session speakers
  • Speaker response to other focus session presentations
  • Reflections on military and industry opportunities and challenges for next-generation platforms and technologies
  • Brigadier General Luca Piperni, Deputy Department Director, 4th Department, National Armaments Directorate , Italian MoD

    Lieutenant Colonel Phillip Button, Future Combat Aviation, Military Capability Plans, Futures Directorate, British Army

    Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

    Kevin Luxford, NGRC Principal Technical Officer, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)

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    17:00

    Chair’s Closing Remarks and Close of Day Two

    Major General (Ret'd) Bohuslav Dvorák, Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.


    Commander, 24th Air Transportation Base
    Czech Air Force
    Deputy Department Director, 4th Department, National Armaments Directorate
    Italian MoD
    Commander, Aviation Support Brigade
    Austrian Armed Forces
    SAR Pilot EH-101 Merlin, 751 Squadron
    Portuguese Air Force
    Senior Combat Marketing Segment Manager
    Airbus Helicopters
    Branch Chief Army Aviation
    German Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre (ACCDC)
    Commander, 93rd Wing
    Croatian Air Force
    Chief of Helicopter and Transport A/C Section, Forces Development Division
    Ministry of Defence Czech Republic
    Capability Development Coherence Officer
    French Air and Space Force
    Commander, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade
    US Army Europe
    Commander 51st Helicopter Wing Prešov
    Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic
    Studies and Programs Office, Ships Interface Section Leader, Naval Aviation Department
    Italian Navy
    Head, UK Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) Portfolio
    UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
    Directorate Analysis and Preventions - Aviation Expert
    US Army Combat Readiness Center
    NGRC Principal Technical Officer
    NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
    Commander, 93rd Wing
    Croatian Air Force
    CEO & Founder
    Mission Systems SA
    COO
    Pathfinder Systems Inc.
    Commander, Maintenance Depot
    Lithuanian Air Force
    Progam Manager SOFAIR
    Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)
    Attack Helicopter and Air Land Integration
    Joint Air Power Competency Centre (JAPCC)
    384 SAR Squadron Commander
    Hellenic Air Force
    Head of Army Aviation
    Finnish Defence Force (FDF)
    NGRC Senior Technical Officer
    NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
    Commander, 151st Rotary Wing Squadron, Air Force and Air Defence
    Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF)
    Future Combat Aviation, Military Capability Plans, Futures Directorate
    British Army
    Air Development Division Branch Head Training & Exercise
    NATO Allied Special Operation Forces Command (SOFCOM)
    Deputy Commander
    Multinational Helicopter Training Centre (MHTC)
    Formely Deputy Chief of General Staff, Czech Armed Forces and Defence & Security Consultant
    AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.
    AW119 Fleet Manager
    Portuguese Air Force
    Aviation Support Programme Manager
    NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
    Nation Flight Training Europe (NFTE) Principal Officer, Aviation Support Programme
    NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
    Project Officer Rotary Wing
    European Defence Agency (EDA)
    Senior Product Marketing Manager (Military)
    Leonardo Helicopters

    Gold Sponsor

    Sponsors

    Exhibitors

    Supporters

    Speaker Interview - COLONEL JORGE INÁCIO

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    Speaker Interview - MR JOSÉ PABLO ROMERA

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    Speaker Interview - Lieutenant Colonel Till Vromans, Air Development Division Branch Head Training & Exercise, NATO Allied Speci

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    Speaker Interview - Brigadier General Luca Piperni

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    Speaker Interview - Brigadier General Wolfgang Luttenberger

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    Speaker Interview - Mr Jas Hawker

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    Brochure 2024

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    Past Attendee List

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    Past Speaker Presentations - Col Karel Valvoda

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    Past Speaker Presentations - Harald Sucher

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    Past Speaker Presentations - Daniele Cucchi

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    Past Speaker Presentations - Colonel Jorge Inacio (PT)

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    Conference Chair Letter

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    Sponsors and Exhibitors


    Airbus

    Gold Sponsor
    https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/helicopters

    Airbus strives to provide the most efficient helicopter solutions to its customers who serve, protect, save lives and safely carry passengers in demanding environments. Its helicopters are in service across more than 150 countries worldwide, performing nearly every type of vertical flight task imaginable. The company’s product line offers the full spectrum of rotary-wing aircraft solutions for civil, government, military, law enforcement and parapublic uses.


    Leonardo

    Gold Sponsor
    https://uk.leonardo.com/en/media/uk-events/helicopter-technology-central-eastern-europe

    Leonardo, a global high-technology company, is among the top world players in Aerospace, Defence and Security and Italy’s main industrial company. Organized into five business divisions, Leonardo has a significant industrial presence in Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland and the USA, where it also operates through subsidiaries and joint ventures and partnerships. Leonardo competes in the most important international markets by leveraging its areas of technological and product leadership (Helicopters, Aircraft, Aerostructures, Electronics, Cyber Security and Space).

    Leonardo has developed remotely piloted systems and technologies across all domains, with significant investment in platforms, sensors, communications, control systems, in addition to counter-drone capabilities and technologies for uncrewed systems’ traffic management and air traffic control. The company’s continued development and integration of cutting-edge solutions across all domains of remotely-piloted and autonomous/semi-autonomous systems and technologies is a key element of Leonardo’s BeTomorrow2030 Strategic Plan


    Sponsors


    Mission Systems SA

    Sponsors
    https://edmissionsystems.swiss/

    Mission Systems SA, is a specialist in military multi-domain mission rehearsal software environments with its original HQ in Switzelrand and offices in United Arab Emirates and Italy.

    The company specializes in military multi-domain mission support and training software aids. The staff includes experienced engineers, managers, and artists who have worked in the military, software development, and aerospace industries. The staff is completed by experienced military subject matter experts such as aviators, land forces commanders and special forces operators, that served in the most recent warfare scenarios. MCA is a cost effective proprietary architecture software suite able to deliver an integrated and unique planning, training, rehearsal, execution and after action review cycle supporting the full operational cycle of modern asymmetric and symmetric warfare.



    Pathfinder Systems

    Sponsors
    https://www.pathfindersystems.com/about-psi

    Pathfinder Systems

    Proven performance at the leading edge of software and systems engineering, technology, research and development.

    Pathfinder Systems designs, builds and supports networked simulators for helicopter and fixed wing aircraft. Our trainers provide initial training and continued proficiency to crew chiefs, gunners, loadmasters and maintenance personnel. Our clients include the United States Marine Corps, United States Air Force, United States Coast Guard, Royal Netherlands Air Force, Flight Safety Int and others.

    Pathfinder exploits the electro-optical and infrared spectrum in our remote sensing technology and the area of sensor fusion. Specifically; detection and targeting of stealthy aircraft and UAVs. PSI’s physics-based approach integrates aerodynamic modeling with deep learning and has a provisional patent.

    Artificial Intelligence

    Pathfinder Systems was an early innovator in the field of artificial intelligence, and has used AI for route planning, image recognition, and simulation and training, among other applications. Our continuing IR&D program focuses on developing new technologies to support the DoD & aerospace industry


    Exhibitors


    Axnes Aviation

    Exhibitors
    http://www.axnes.com

    Axnes Aviation develops and supplies advanced and highly durable wireless intercom solutions for use in and outside aircraft and in other demanding applications. AXNES is well known for its wireless ICS systems, and today more than 750 aircraft worldwide are equipped with AXNES wireless technology. The company has been supplying its wireless intercom systems to the industry for almost two decades and is an EASA Part 21 and Part 145 approved organization. AXNES is an approved supplier to OEMs such as Agusta Westland, Airbus Helicopters, Bell Helicopter and Sikorsky.


    SLOVAK TRAINING ACADEMY

    Exhibitors
    https://www.sk-ta.com/en/

    We offer a wide range of aviation training programs for civilian and defense industry customers. We operate an ever-expanding fleet that covers all phases of the training and provides the best conditions for starting successful career in aviation. At the Slovak Training Academy, thanks to our experienced instructors, we can train a student with zero experience up to the level of a pilot ready to deploy in missions.

    The training packages are tailored to each client needs – from basic pilot training to advanced and tactical training along with maintenance courses. STA is also the first civilian operator of UH-60A Black Hawk helicopters in Europe. In total our fleet counts more than 22 helicopters type S-300, MD500, MD530, Bell-206 or AS355N.



    Thales

    Exhibitors
    https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/markets/defence-and-security/land-forces/mounted-combat

    Thales is a global leader in advanced technologies, investing in digital and “deep tech” innovations to build a confident future crucial for the development of our societies. Armed forces, governments and global organisations entrust Thales with helping them achieve and maintain security, tactical superiority and strategic independence in the face of any type of threat. Land forces all over the world rely on Thales's comprehensive array of cutting-edge vehicle optronics solutions to help them complete their missions safely and effectively in a wide range of battlespace environments.


    Media Partners


    Defence Online

    Supporters
    https://www.defenceonline.co.uk/

    Defence Online is one of the fastest-growing communities of key decision makers representing defence sector buyers and influencers within the Ministry of Defence, Prime Contractors and Industry. Providing up-to-date and informative news, insight and intelligence, Defence Online allows organisations to engage directly with a range of sector-based solutions, designed specifically to enhance their knowledge and understanding of this ever-evolving marketplace. No matter the size of your organisation, Defence Online has a range of advertising and marketing solutions to suit your business development requirements, connecting you with a marketplace worth over £19 billion annually in the UK alone.


    Defence Global

    Supporters
    http://barclaymedia.uk.com/

    Defence Global provides an essential link between the Defence & Security Manufacturers and Suppliers, Government and Military sectors globally. Defence Global is a quarterly, tri-service publication providing articles and informative analysis from respected journalists and writers worldwide to attract a sophisticated and broad audience. Defence Global is published in February, May, August and November, with a professional and stylish design in both printed copy and digital format. The printed copies are perfect bound, full colour throughout with high quality art and photography. Defence Global is used as a reference tool providing a professional and intelligent read. We work with industry experts and corporate clients to include Defence and Security Manufacturers and Suppliers, as well as Governments, MoDs, Military Authorities and Senior Management Teams.


    Defense Advancement

    Supporters
    https://www.defenseadvancement.com/

    DefenseAdvancement.com (DA) is a defense marketing and supplier sourcing platform, showcasing supplier capabilities across aerospace, land, naval and security domains. Operated by the team behind UnmannedSystemsTechnology.com, DA connects governments, armed forces and the entire defense and security supply chain, giving suppliers an online platform to showcase their technologies and capabilities.


    Global Defense Insight

    Supporters
    https://defensetalks.com/



    Armada International

    Supporters
    http://armadainternational.com

    ARMADA INTERNATIONAL is leading defence magazine which reports on and analyses defence systems, equipment and technology. Together with its Compendium supplements, ARMADA provides defence planners in the militaries, in government, in procurement and in the defence industry itself with the information they need to plan their strategies.


    Asian Military Review

    Supporters
    http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/

    Asian Military Review is ABC audited publication, read & discussed by key decision makers & advisors to Asia Pacific militaries. Published since 1993 it’s widely recognised as authoritative provider of unbiased & objective information to Asian military. Editorial content comprises capability analysis, special reports & relevant news coverage from the region. AMR provides information, opinion & facts allowing military professionals to track & understand defence developments worldwide, concerning equipment, training, organisation & doctrine issues. The magazine is a proven source keeping military professionals up to date on national & international defence & security issues.

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    WHAT IS CPD?

    CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development’. It is essentially a philosophy, which maintains that in order to be effective, learning should be organised and structured. The most common definition is:

    ‘A commitment to structured skills and knowledge enhancement for Personal or Professional competence’

    CPD is a common requirement of individual membership with professional bodies and Institutes. Increasingly, employers also expect their staff to undertake regular CPD activities.

    Undertaken over a period of time, CPD ensures that educational qualifications do not become obsolete, and allows for best practice and professional standards to be upheld.

    CPD can be undertaken through a variety of learning activities including instructor led training courses, seminars and conferences, e:learning modules or structured reading.

    CPD AND PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTES

    There are approximately 470 institutes in the UK across all industry sectors, with a collective membership of circa 4 million professionals, and they all expect their members to undertake CPD.

    For some institutes undertaking CPD is mandatory e.g. accountancy and law, and linked to a licence to practice, for others it’s obligatory. By ensuring that their members undertake CPD, the professional bodies seek to ensure that professional standards, legislative awareness and ethical practices are maintained.

    CPD Schemes often run over the period of a year and the institutes generally provide online tools for their members to record and reflect on their CPD activities.

    TYPICAL CPD SCHEMES AND RECORDING OF CPD (CPD points and hours)

    Professional bodies and Institutes CPD schemes are either structured as ‘Input’ or ‘Output’ based.

    ‘Input’ based schemes list a precise number of CPD hours that individuals must achieve within a given time period. These schemes can also use different ‘currencies’ such as points, merits, units or credits, where an individual must accumulate the number required. These currencies are usually based on time i.e. 1 CPD point = 1 hour of learning.

    ‘Output’ based schemes are learner centred. They require individuals to set learning goals that align to professional competencies, or personal development objectives. These schemes also list different ways to achieve the learning goals e.g. training courses, seminars or e:learning, which enables an individual to complete their CPD through their preferred mode of learning.

    The majority of Input and Output based schemes actively encourage individuals to seek appropriate CPD activities independently.

    As a formal provider of CPD certified activities, SAE Media Group can provide an indication of the learning benefit gained and the typical completion. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the delegate to evaluate their learning, and record it correctly in line with their professional body’s or employers requirements.

    GLOBAL CPD

    Increasingly, international and emerging markets are ‘professionalising’ their workforces and looking to the UK to benchmark educational standards. The undertaking of CPD is now increasingly expected of any individual employed within today’s global marketplace.

    CPD Certificates

    We can provide a certificate for all our accredited events. To request a CPD certificate for a conference , workshop, master classes you have attended please email events@saemediagroup.com

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    UK Office
    Opening Hours: 9.00 - 17.30 (local time)
    SAE Media Group , Ground Floor, India House, 45 Curlew Street, London, SE1 2ND, United Kingdom
    Tel: +44 (0) 20 7827 6000 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7827 6001
    Website: http://www.smgconferences.com Email: events@saemediagroup.com
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