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

This year’s conference examined the role of armed forces in helping to defuse complex crises in the world today and asked 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 began with perspectives of senior officers from the UK, US, French, Canadian and Kenyan Armies. Operational updates from Iraq, Afghanistan and other regions addressed how forces and other agencies are currently working to achieve better security in these countries. Speakers then examined 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.  

Speakers looked at recent developments in army doctrine, training and education. They also examined 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 examined, under the physical component, 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.