By
Sandra Di Guglielmo
NETWORK-centric
Warfare and the Future of Air Power is the theme of the Air Force’s
biennial Air Power Conference in Canberra from September 16-17
at the National Convention Centre.
The
conference is open to air power enthusiasts, serving and retired
members of the ADF, industry, academics and analysts.
The
world is going through very uncertain times. Defence forces have
to be capable of adequate flexibility to cope with the increasing
and diverse demands of the future.
The
concept of network-centric warfare is a step towards enabling
optimum capabilities to address the challenges faced in future
operating environments.
The 2004 biennial conference aims to address the pros and cons
of network-centric warfare in relation to air power in a succinct
manner while keeping in touch with the realities in terms of our
current security challenges and perceptions.
Defence
Minister Robert Hill is scheduled to open the conference and CAF
Air Marshal Angus Houston will deliver the keynote address.
In addition, presentations will be made by a number of internationally
acknowledged experts in the field. The eminent speakers include
Lieutenant-General Michael Short (USAF retired), Air Vice-Marshal
Iain McNicholl, RAF, Dr Ross Babbage, Dr Alan Stephens and Mr
Alan Vick.
The conference will also include an international panel discussing
“The Value of Networkcentric Warfare to Air Forces” and include
representatives from the Indian, Malaysian and United Arab Emirates
Air Forces.
CA Lieutenant-General Peter Leahy and CN Vice-Admiral Chris Ritchie
will also speak on networkcentric warfare and the implications
for their services.
Further information and a brochure and registration form for the
2004 conference can be obtained from the Air Power Development
Centre web site www.raaf.gov.au/airpower
or by emailing airpower@defence.gov.au
or telephoning (02) 6266 1360.
Sandra Di Guglielmo is Deputy Director Engagement and Coordination
at the Air Power Development Centre.
