Col Maurizio De Guida is currently assigned to the GCAP Government Agency (Reading, UK), as Requirements Management and Operational Factors branch lead. He joined the Italian Air Force in 1998. After Pilot Training in Sheppard AFB (ENJJPT) he was assigned to AM-X, progressing to Qualified Weapons and Tactics Instructor. He has been selected for an exchange with the USAF, on A-10C. He then transitioned to F-35A, serving as Squadron Commander and leading to Initial Operational Capability (IOC) the first F-35 OCONUS Operational Unit. With over 3,200 hours, including 600 in real operations, he joined the Air Staff Policy and Plans department, focusing on Air Force Capabilities Requirements and then Chief of Future Combat Air System–Planning Office. He holds a degree in Political Science, a master’s degree in Leadership and Strategic Analysis and attended NATO Defence College Senior Course.