U.S. Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James To Speak At AFCEA International Air Operations Symposium

Air operations over Northern Iraq, Afghanistan and other world trouble spots demonstrate the complexity of delivering humanitarian aid while combating terrorism. Equally challenging is the integration of evolving air capabilities to support domestic security and relief needs in the crowded U.S. airspace. To encourage discussion of these vital topics among the military, government, commercial and academic sectors, AFCEA International is teaming with its Alamo Chapter to present the Air Operations Symposium "Diverse Missions, One Airspace" March 31-April 2, 2015, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio.

Deborah Lee James, secretary of the U.S. Air Force, is among the military, FAA, and other agency subject matter experts scheduled to speak at the event, which will feature four keynote speakers, three panels and several engagement theater sessions. In addition, three concurrent tracks will explore diverse mission systems integration; command or control technologies; and cybersecurity needs. Presentations will be evaluated for continuing education credit prior to the event.

"Our modern airspace is a key operating domain for a diverse array of military and commercial capabilities," notes Lt. Gen. Bob Wood, USA (Ret.), executive vice president, AFCEA International. "We find ourselves integrating different mission partners and different supporting technologies to combat emergent threats, relieve human suffering or protect our vital interests at home and abroad. We have learned many lessons in recent years and are now making development choices that shape our practices, doctrine and training. A constructive conversation between government, the military and industry as we make choices is more critical than ever. This conference a forum for such a discussion about current and new requirements for capabilities and solutions."

Networking opportunities for attendees are being built into this event, Gen. Wood adds. In addition to the exhibit area, military and commercial leaders in aviation, intelligence, technology and cybersecurity will encourage open discussions in a set of engagement theaters at the event, he says.

FMI: www.afcea.org/