Organised in association with the British Army and supported by the Association of the US Army

This year’s conference will examine the role of armed forces in helping to defuse complex crises in the world today and will ask how the Army, the government and the nation at large can better support its soldiers to meet the challenges of these operational theatres. 

Complex crises can be defined as situations in which fragile states need assistance with security, governance and with economic development. While the British Army may take a major role in such crises, national and international agencies along with other government departments will need to contribute in order for a successful strategic end-state to be achieved.

The conference will begin with perspectives of senior officers from the UK, US, French, Canadian and Kenyan Armies. Operational updates from Iraq, Afghanistan and other regions will address how forces and other agencies are currently working to achieve better security in these countries. Speakers will then examine how a comprehensive approach through effective pan-government strategies, enhanced coalition interoperability, and a proper understanding of culture and motivation can enhance efforts in these theatres.  The first day will finish with a panel of commanders and operators who will offer a practical perspective on some of the issues discussed earlier in the day.

The second day of the event will analyse how to sustain forces, examining the conceptual, moral and physical components. Speakers will look at recent developments in army doctrine, training and education. They will also examine the moral duty of the army and its nation to support and sustain the soldier, the veteran and their families; this is a growing commitment as operations endure in the Middle East. The Conference will, under the physical component, look at agile acquisition: balancing the need for a long term strategy to ensure progressive update of the full inventory of military equipment while meeting the pressing day-to-day needs of front line forces.

Organised once again in association with the British Army, this conference will bring together over 400 delegates including senior officers from the UK and allied nations, academics, civil servants and industry leaders to discuss the important role we all must play in sustaining our forces on the front line.

To register for this event please complete the registration form on the back of the conference brochure and return to Kathy Burwood. NB The Shephard Group are responsible for all registrations for this event.