On May 13 and 14, 2026, a significant experts’ conference, AIR FORCE CONFERENCE 2026, with the topic Technology in Aviation Personnel Training, took place at the University of Defence Club in Brno. It was organized by the Air Force Department of the Faculty of Military Technologies. This prestigious event was held under the direct auspices of the Czech Air Force Commander, Major General Petr Čepelka, and welcomed more than one hundred experts from the military, the Ministry of Defence, academia, and the private sector. The entire program was guided by retired Major General Bohuslav Dvořák, who, as the Master of Ceremony, ensured the smooth flow of discussions on current challenges in modern flight training.  

The meeting’s high importance was underscored by the participation of the top air force representatives, including the Deputy Commander of the Czech Air Force, BG Petr Tománek, Deputy Commander of the Operations Command, MG Jaroslav Míka and the Commander of the Slovak Air Force, BG Adolf Daubner. Extraordinary attention was drawn to the presence of Major Aleš Svoboda, the Czech astronaut, whose expected space mission next year represents a peak milestone for the entire aviation and space community. The conference’s international dimension was highlighted by experts from Poland, the Netherlands, and Slovakia, who, along with representatives of private companies, shared experiences in integrating new technologies into personnel preparation.  

The Head of the Air Force Department, Colonel Petr Michenka, summarized the significance of the conference by saying: „The joint exchange of experience between academia, international air force representatives, and the industry is the most important thing I expect during these two days. Future pilots, air traffic controllers, and others being trained at our department will operate the most modern technologies in the near future. Therefore, we must already base our approach on the latest knowledge and provide education at the level of the 21st century.“  

 The professional program focused on innovative methods and technological tools that fundamentally change the efficiency and safety of training in today’s dynamic environment. Discussions between military decision-makers and industry representatives confirmed that close cooperation and knowledge sharing across NATO nations are crucial for maintaining a technological edge. The conference thus successfully consolidated the Air Force Department position as a platform for connecting theory with practice and for determining future directions in the field of aviation education.

To access the conference proceedings, you can scan the QR code attached below.

Author: David Demydenko