Conference

FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES (R&D)

Panellists:

prof. dr. Janko Slavič
prof. dr. Janko Slavič
Vice-dean, Faculty of Mechanical Enineering, University of Ljubljana
dr. Liliana Brožič
dr. Liliana Brožič
Secretary, Ministry of Defence of Republic of Slovenia
Nathalie Guichard
Nathalie Guichard
new EDA Director for Research, Technology and Innovation
Leonardo
Representative of Leonardo S.p.A. company
TBC

Join us for an eye-opening presentation on advanced defense technologies at the forefront of cutting-edge research. We’ll highlight tribological breakthroughs that reduce friction, save energy, and prolong the lifespan of critical military hardware. Our team will also showcase innovative methods for mitigating noise and vibration in propulsion setups, significantly lowering acoustic signatures while enhancing stealth. From advanced materials processing to additive manufacturing and specialized post-processing, we tackle the toughest challenges in high-temperature and fire-resistant metal components. See how these and other breakthroughs reduce environmental impact, streamline logistical demands, and bolster operational readiness, pushing the boundaries of modern defense capabilities.

We will also discuss the strategic governmental decisions aimed at acquiring critical warfare technologies and gain insight into the research activities of one of the leading global industrial groups that develops technological capabilities in the Aerospace, Defence, and Security sectors.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RESILIENCE

Panellists:

polkovnik Robert Šipec
colonel Robert Šipec
Ministry of Defence of Republic of Slovenia
prof. dr. Mihael Sekavčnik
prof. dr. Mihael Sekavčnik
Dean, Faculty of Mechanical Enineering, University of Ljubljana
mag. Matej Gajzer
Matej Gajzer, M.Sc.
TECES - TBC
Maja Kuzel
Maja Kuzel
European Defence Agency

Join us for a focused event on advanced energy solutions that bolster operational readiness and resilience in defense. We will highlight cutting-edge research in hydrogen, battery technologies, alternative fuels, and integrated multi-energy systems. These innovations aim to reduce logistical burdens, lower emissions, and ensure a reliable energy supply under demanding conditions. Hear how new approaches can minimize noise and thermal signatures, enhance off-grid capabilities, and ultimately strengthen mission effectiveness. Connect with experts from the defense, research, and industry sectors to help shape a cleaner, more secure future.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Panellists:

Matjaž Zupančič Muc
Matjaž Zupančič Muc
Guardiaris
Sašo Blažič
Sašo Blažič
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana
dr. Matej Dobrevski
dr. Matej Dobrevski
Faculty of Computer and Information Science, University of Ljubljana
dr. Armando Geller
dr. Armando Geller
Scensei
Andrej Mesner
Andrej Mesner
Igea
Bojan Miličić, M.Sc.
Bojan Miličić, M.Sc.
Medius
Bretten Gordeau
Bretten Gordeau
Invisible Arts

Join us for an event about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in defense. We will discuss the role of AI in training and simulations, where it enables the creation of realistic and adaptive learning environments and operational scenarios, which significantly improves the readiness of forces for diverse and complex situations. A more detailed presentation about the use of AI avatars for training direct communication in hostile situations is the keynote topic. The challenges of autonomous systems and awareness of their surroundings and spatial orientation are solved with AI by connecting to multitude of sensors and sensor data fusion in real time. This significantly improves situational awareness, with multi-domain data integration and use of advanced methods for detecting, recognizing and tracking objects while properly deciding in critical situations. You will connect with experts from industry, research and defense sectors and gain insight into future of AI in defense.

CYBER SECURITY

Panellists:

Marko Hölbl
Assoc. Prof. Marko Hölbl
FERI, UniMB
Milan Gabor
Milan Gabor
CEO, Viris d.o.o.
Andrea Pompili
Andrea Pompili
Chief Scientist Officer, CY4GATE
Mojca Volk
Assist. Prof. Mojca Volk
FE UniLJ
Matjaž Breznik
Matjaž Breznik
CREAPLUS d.o.o.
Peter Ceferin
Peter Ceferin
CTO, Smart Com d.o.o.

The panel on cybersecurity will cover a range of critical topics. Key discussions will include the role of cybersecurity in modern defence strategies, with insights from a EU official, and the opportunities for dual use in cybersecurity, focusing on how commercial sector achievements can be applied to defence, highlighted by the BRICO project. The current cyber threat landscape will be examined, addressing state-sponsored attacks and cyber espionage. The Captech Cyber session will introduce the REMUDO project, a platform designed for situation awareness. Collaborative cyber defence initiatives, such as the Pesco CRRT project, will be discussed, emphasizing the development of a common cyber capability for responding to incidents and crises. Additionally, the challenges of cybersecurity in critical infrastructure during the quantum computing era will be addressed. The conference will also feature a roundtable discussion on the mid-term strategic priorities for cyber defence in the EU until 2030.