Joint Air and Space Power Think Tank Forum

Poggio Renatico, 28-30 March 2017. Military and Civilian leaders representing 16 organisations from 11 nations discussed some of the most pressing issues facing NATO air power during the fourth annual Joint Air and Space Power “Think Tank Forum.” The meeting was held from 28-30 March, 2017, graciously hosted by the Italian Air Force – Air Operations Command, and the Italian Air Warfare Centre in Poggio Renatico, Italy.

The objective of the Think Tank Forum is to exchange information regarding the composition and responsibilities of Think Tanks, Air Warfare Centres, Air Force HQs, and Military Academies of NATO Nations, with a goal of coordinating programmes of work and identifying areas of common interest where participants can collaborate to find effective solutions.

This year, the subject areas proposed ranged from Joint education and Lessons Learned, to the dilemma of sustainable air power for small and medium-sized nations, to Unmanned Aerial Systems, 5th Generation fighters and ISR PED, to ideas for greater cooperation in aircraft recapitalization and space surveillance operations, and many others.

During the meeting, participants shared their current projects and discussed areas of interest and concern where their nation or organisation could benefit from external assistance and collaboration. The Forum was most beneficial in identifying communities of interest for mutual cooperation and outlining ways to continue more efficient coordination after the end of the two-day event. JAPCC Chief of Staff Colonel Brad Bredenkamp, the Forum Chairman, encouraged participants to utilize the collaborative workspaces available at www.japcc.org as a mechanism for continued information sharing and data and solution preservation.

The Think Tank Forum is open to national organisations of NATO and partner nations focused on the advancement of air and space power for both their nations and the Alliance. If you would like more information about joining the community or attending the next annual meeting, please contact: ace@japcc.org .