NATO’s 2024 Alliance Warfare Development Conference: Shaping the Future of Defence

Two representatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Centre of Excellence (EOD COE), Director, Colonel Frantisek Mihalovic, and the Chief of Staff, Colonel Zsolt Szilagyi participated in the NATO’s 2024 Alliance Warfare Development Conference, held December 8th to 10th 2024, in Norfolk, Virginia.

The AWDC served as ACT’s annual meeting for Flag Officers/General Officers and civilian equivalent decision makers from Allied nations and NATO enterprises that are responsible for warfare development activities. This year it wasn’t just another meeting – it was a high-stakes collision of minds, driven by one goal: keeping NATO ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing world. This year’s theme was clear: Outpacing and Sharpening the Edge. NATO leaders from across the Alliance gathered to exchange bold ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and refine strategies for tomorrow’s threats.  It was a call to action – a reminder that NATO’s future is shaped by the creativity and boldness of its leaders today.

The AWDC was an excellent opportunity for national and NATO leaders to gain a better understanding of how ACT contributes to delivering credible deterrence and defence and to exchange views and explore ways in which to accelerate the transformation of NATO’s Military instrument of Power. With 2025 on the horizon, NATO is already setting the groundwork for tomorrow’s successes. As Admiral Vandier put it: NATO isn’t just preparing for the future, it is defining it.

Text: COL Lajos Zsolt SZILAGYI (HUN-A)

Photo: 1LT Michal HOLOVIČ (SVK-A)