On behalf of Aviation Week, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Aviation Week Defense Conference. Your participation is truly appreciated.
This year’s theme, Defenders & Innovators: Redefining Defense for the Next Generation, sets the stage for thought-provoking discussions, data-driven insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
As we gather in the heart of the nation’s capital, we are reminded of the critical role innovation plays in shaping the future of defense. From emerging technologies to evolving adversary strategies, the challenges we face demand bold ideas and collaborative solutions.
Over the next two days, you will hear from leading experts on topics ranging from geopolitical leadership, production capacity, international cooperation, mergers & acquisition, security threats, hypersonic advancements and space defense to budget allocations and modernization strategies.
We are also thankful to our generous sponsors, whose support makes this event possible:
Additional networking opportunities are available during our table talk discussions during lunch based on topics covered on the agenda. Tables will be assigned a topic, and attendees can participate based on their interest. For attendees not interested in engaging during lunch, there will be open tables.
We encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities this conference offers—engage with our speakers, actively participate in discussions, and connect with fellow attendees who share your passion for advancing the defense industry.
It is such a critical time in the defense community and global affairs. We look forward to your contributions and to an exciting and productive conference.
Regards,
Carol Wilkins Sr.
Conference Producer Aviation Week
n carol.wilkins@aviationweek.com
n +1 945 201 8485
n www.linkedin.com/in/carolwilkins
Agenda
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
8:00am Sponsored by Registration
8:00am Morning Refreshment
8:55am
Opening Welcome/Host Sponsor
Carol Wilkins, Senior Conference Producer, Aviation Week
Featured Speaker – Geopolitical Leadership: Managing Conflicts and Building Alliances in a Fragmented World
The discussion primarily revolves around the challenges businesses face in navigating government relations, global alliances, and the defense industry’s role in maintaining economic and security interests. The speaker will advocate for businesses to actively defend their interests, recognize the importance of alliances, and adapt strategically to shifting global dynamics. In summary, a thoughtful dialogue into the valuable fundamentals of alliances.
Moderator: Joe Anselmo, SVP Content & Editorial Director, Aviation Week
Evelyn N. Farkas, Ph.D., Executive Director, McCain Institute
9:35am
International Defense Market in Focus: Demand Priorities & Budget Realities
As global security challenges intensify and defense budgets face increasing scrutiny, military leaders and industry executives must navigate complex procurement decisions in 2026. This forecast examines critical capability gaps, emerging threat priorities, and the fiscal constraints shaping U.S. defense spending. What are the emerging market opportunities that can meet demand priorities, while facing extreme budget realities. Join a team of Aviation Week expert analysts as they analyze budget allocations, program timelines, and the strategic tradeoffs that will define military modernization efforts. Gain essential insights into procurement opportunities, technology investments, and the geopolitical factors driving defense priorities.
Craig Caffrey, Director, Defense Data & Analysis, Aviation Week
Hosted Session by Expanding U.S. Hypersonic Advantage with Air Launch
Air-launched platforms are redefining hypersonic flight test by enabling rapid, flexible access to the hypersonic environment from a range of geographic locations worldwide. Compared with traditional ground-launched systems, air-launch architecture expands available test corridors, reduces infrastructure limitations and accelerates mission timelines.
This presentation will highlight Stratolaunch’s demonstrated record of repeatable hypersonic flight and the operational advantages of reusable, airlaunched systems. The discussion will examine how this approach delivers responsive, scalable and costeffective flight test capability in support of defense priorities and national security objectives.
Dr. Zachary Krevor, President & CEO, Stratolaunch
10:45am Political Crossroads: How to Adapt to the New Era of Legislative Gridlock?
Every new administration brings inevitable shifts in defense priorities, budget allocations, and strategic planning that create ripple effects throughout the Pentagon and the broader transatlantic alliance. This timely discussion examines how policy changes and evolving political dynamics are reshaping military modernization programs, NATO commitments, and export market access regarding International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and other cross-border defense cooperations. With congressional elections on the horizon, how might the political atmosphere affect defense priorities if there are major changes in Congress? After more than a year with the current administration, senior industry leaders will discuss how to analyze and adapt to changing patterns, navigate uncertainty, and maintain alliance cohesion and operational readiness.
Moderator: Russ Matijevich, Founder and CEO, Matijevich International
Alison Lynn, SVP, External Affairs, Aerospace Industries Association
Jen Stewart, EVP for Strategy and Policy, National Defense Industrial Association
11:35am
Production Capacity & Defense Modernization –Securing DIB for Great Power Conflict
The defense industrial base (DIB) faces unprecedented challenges in preparing for potential great power conflicts, requiring a fundamental transformation from small-scale manufacturing to mass production capacity. The integration of next-generation market entrants — including automotive manufacturers with mass production expertise, agile startups with rapid prototyping capabilities, and tech companies bringing automation and digital manufacturing innovations — represents a critical pathway for transforming defense production capacity to meet the demands of great power competition.
John Arnold, Senior Director, North American Sales, Dassault Systemes
Timothy G. Fay, Senior Director for Air Force, Boeing Mikhail Grinberg, Senior Partner, Renaissance Strategic Advisors
12:25pm Networking Lunch & Table Talks
Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in different table talk discussions based on the topics covered on the agenda. Each table will be assigned a topic, and attendees can participate based on their interest. For attendees not interested in engaging during lunch, there will be open tables.
1:30pm Space & Defense – What’s Up with Our Adversaries?
As space becomes the ultimate high ground in modern warfare, understanding adversary capabilities and intentions has never been more critical. This session examines the evolving threat landscape in the space domain, where traditional boundaries between offensive and defensive operations are rapidly dissolving. Our discussion will explore current U.S. posture in both offensive and defensive space operations, analyzing how military strategists are adapting to an environment where space and terrestrial defense systems are becoming increasingly inseparable. We’ll examine how adversaries are leveraging space-based assets to enhance their military capabilities and the implications for national security.
Moderator: Russ Matijevich, Founder and CEO, Matijevich International Clinton Clark, Chief Growth Officer, ExoAnalytic Solutions, Inc.
Jeff Thornburg, Co-Founder & CEO, Portal Space Systems
John Paul “JP” Parker, CEO, Escape Velocity
2:20pm
Defense Strategies: Leveraging International Cooperation for Security
In today’s complex security environment, no single nation can fulfill all defense capabilities independently. This session explores the power of partnerships in building resilient defense architecture through strategic, technological, and operational collaboration. Drawing from past successes in international cooperation, we’ll examine how nations can leverage collective strengths to address evolving security challenges and create more robust defense frameworks that benefit all partners.
Moderator: Michael Langman, Head of U.S. East Coast Office, Starburst
Omer Haim, Director, International Sector, Rhombus Power
Jacob Markish, VP, Strategy, Marketing & Corporate Development, Thales North America
Mike Schnabel, VP, International Operations & Policy, Boeing
3:05pm
What’s Next in Mergers & Acquisition?
This session explores how companies are strengthening their international presence while navigating an evolving A&D landscape driven by supply chain vulnerabilities and capacity constraints. The discussion will examine critical investments in tier 3 and tier 4 suppliers who traditionally lack access to scale and struggle to meet increasing demand from prime contractors. Industry leaders will explore how these smaller suppliers represent both acquisition opportunities and strategic vulnerabilities that require targeted investment and consolidation strategies. Presenters will analyze how non-traditional funding sources are reshaping supplier ecosystems and creating new pathways for growth and consolidation.
Key topics:
– Investments in tiers 3 & 4 (lack of access to scale and meet demand)
– Private equity and venture capital role in building supply chain capacity
– Recent IPOs in A&D sector
– Government intervention in critical supply chain areas
Moderator: Michael Bruno, Executive Editor, Business, Aviation Week
William (Bill) Alderman, Founding Partner, Alderman & Co.
Tim Garnett, Partner and Head Aerospace & Defense
Americas, Oliver Wyman
Meghan Welch, Managing Director, Brown Gibbons Lang
This session explores the transformation of the defense procurement processes designed to accelerate innovation and improve acquisition outcomes in an increasingly dynamic threat environment. The Department of War (DoW) has revised procurement guidelines primarily through executive orders focused on modernization and efficiency. The discussion will examine key critical procurement reform initiatives focused on enhancing small business and startup access to defense contracts, breaking down traditional barriers that have historically limited participation from innovative companies. Presenters will explore how fast-track acquisition authorities, particularly how Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), are revolutionizing the speed and flexibility of defense contracting.
Key topics:
– Optimizing research and development timelines
– Reducing the gap between innovation and deployment
– Ensuring that cutting-edge technologies reach warfighters more rapidly
– Traditional cost-plus arrangements for performancebased contracts
– Hybrid models that balance risk, innovation, and accountability
Moderator: Derek Baggerly, CEO, Cycle Time LLC
Margaret Boatner, VP of National Security Policy, Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)
Dr. Lee K. Levy, II, CEO, The Levy Group, LLC and Board of Directors, National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA)
Current global conflicts have revealed critical gaps in defense production capabilities, it’s estimated the UK’s entire annual artillery shell production being consumed in under a month of active conflict in Ukraine. This session examines how nations are adapting to these unprecedented demands through rapid scaling of manufacturing, integration of new technologies, and enhanced operational flexibility. We’ll explore emerging battlefield innovations including drone warfare, AI applications, and counter-drone systems, analyzing how these technologies are reshaping modern conflict and driving urgent defense industry transformations.
Moderator: Robert Wall, Executive Editor, Defense and Space, Aviation Week
Adoram Riglear, IMOD Rep, Embassy of Israel
Steve Trimble, Defense Editor, Aviation Week
5:30pm
Closing Remarks
Cocktail Reception 5:35pm – 6:45pm
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
8:00am Registration
9:00am
Adapting to Change: U.S. Defense Market Opportunities
With uncertainty surrounding the future of U.S. military spending, the defense sector is increasingly focused on identifying new opportunities for growth. Join Aviation Week’s experts for a morning briefing that will delve into high-growth international markets, key programs within the U.S. defense budget, market segments poised for expansion, and strategies for U.S. suppliers to succeed in an ever-evolving global defense landscape.
Moderator: Robert Wall, Executive Editor, Defense and Space, Aviation Week
Craig Caffrey, Director, Defense Data & Analysis, Aviation Week
Hiding in Plain Sight: Hardware Security Threats from China, Russia, and Iran in U.S. Military System
U.S. military operations face a critical and often overlooked vulnerability with infiltrated compromised hardware (e.g. computer boards and critical parts) embedded within essential systems. From bomber aircraft and missile platforms, to command-and-control networks and communications infrastructure, malicious components could potentially cripple American forces at crucial moments. This discussion will address one of the most pressing yet under-addressed security challenges facing modern military operations. Hear what steps can be taken to protect critical defense infrastructure from this invisible threat.
Moderator: Russ Matijevich, Founder and CEO, Matijevich International
Roei Ganzarski, CEO, Alitheon
11:05am Sponsored by Break
11:30am
The New Arsenal: Defining the Future of Multi-Domain Air Power
In an era defined by rapid technological shifts and near-peer competition, the future of national security depends on a fundamental reimagining of aerial power and industrial agility. This panel brings together visionary leaders to explore how the convergence of hybrid-electric propulsion, eSTOL, autonomous heavylift, and tactical UAS platforms is dismantling traditional defense paradigms.
Our panel will discuss the future of contested logistics, strategic necessity of software-defined airframes, the tactical advantages of reduced signatures through electrification, and the critical need for a resilient, highmass industrial base.
Join us as we examine how these diverse systems are being integrated to create a more unpredictable and survivable force, ensuring the U.S. and its allies maintain a decisive edge in the second century of flight.
Moderator: Roei Ganzarski, CEO, Alitheon
James McClearen, CEO, Darkflite & CTO, Blueflight
Fred W. Piasecki, Chairman of the Board and CTO, Piasecki Aircraft
Donn Yates, VP for Gov Affairs, Electra Aero
12:15am
Global Raw Materials Outlook: Market Dynamics and Industry Insights
Join us for an in-depth analysis of the A&D raw materials sector, covering critical insights into market trends, supply chains, pricing dynamics, and key industry players. The presentation covers the impact of global economic factors, trade policies, and geopolitical developments on raw material availability and pricing. This industry report aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, anticipate market shifts, and develop strategic initiatives to stay competitive in this market sector.
– The current administration is committing a lot of financial and other resources to mineral development – A&D supply chains are strained by China’s export controls
Moderator: Matt Fulco, Business Editor, Aviation Week
Mahnaz Khan, VP of Policy, Critical Supply Chain, Silverado Policy Accelerator
Dr. Aditya Ramji, Director, University of California, Davis
Jim Sims, CCO, NioCorp Developments LTD
Lunch
1:30pm – 2:00pm
Featured Lunch Speaker
James R. Mismash, Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Growth and Director of Small Business Programs, Department of War
In his role as Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Growth and Director of Small Business Programs, Mismash advises the Secretary of War, the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy on matters affecting new entrants and small businesses across the defense industrial base. He leads efforts to strengthen the role of small and nontraditional companies in meeting warfighting needs, advancing critical technologies, and building a resilient and competitive industrial base.
Moderator: Brian Everstine, Pentagon Editor
2:05pm
Defense Conference Ends 2:05pm
Program Excellence Round Table
4:45pm Round Table Wrap up
Program Excellence Awards Dinner
6:30pm – 10:00pm
Learn from the Experts
From industry outlooks to defense acquisition reforms and supplier concerns, conference attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the major components driving the aerospace and defense industry and network with key stakeholders right in the Nation’s Capital – the epicenter of defense policy and decision-making.
Hear Directly from Aviation Week’s Award-Winning Editorial and Data & Intelligence Teams, and from the Aerospace & Defense Industry’s Executive Leadership.
Joe Anselmo SVP of Content, Editorial Director
Michael Bruno Executive Editor, Business
Craig Caffrey Head and Defense Markets & Data and Intelligence & Data Services
Donn Yates VP for Government Affairs, Electra Aero
John Paul “JP” Parker Founder & CEO, Escape Velocity
Jen Stewart EVP for Strategy and Policy, National Defense Industrial Association
Fred W. Piasecki Chairman of the Board and CTO, Piasecki Aircraft
Jeff Thornburg Co-Founder & CEO, Portal Space Systems
Dr. Aditya Ramji Director, University of California, Davis
Michael Schnabel VP, International Operations and Policy, Boeing
Todd Tuthill Managing Partner, Rincon Aerospace Meghan M. Welch Managing Director, Brown Gibbons Lang & Company
Produced by Aviation Week
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With over 30 years in the publishing/information industry, Anne is currently Sr. Vice President responsible for the intelligence, data and media business. In this role she guides the overall strategic direction and implementation of products and services for leading brands across all sectors of the groups aerospace and air transport portfolio.
Robert Wall
Executive Editor for Defense and Space
Based in London, Robert directs a team of military and space journalists across the U.S., Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Wall has extensive experience in defense and aerospace reporting, having worked at Aviation Week, Bloomberg News, and the Wall Street Journal. He also served as editor of The Military Balance at the London based International Institute for Strategic Studies think tank.
Unlock Extra Networking
Attendees at the Aviation Week Defense Conference can connect, book meetings and browse the agenda via the event app – powered by Brella.
Download the app
Pre Show: Access via desktop: Visit next.brella.io/join/PRDBOM
Onsite: Download the Brella app and enter join code: PRDBOM
Explore the key features of the app below:
• Matched Networking
During login the app will ask you to define your event goals. The app uses the information to match you to prospects with similar interests and goals. You can also browse the full list of attendees, or use the filters and search to find a prospect.
• Live Chat and Meetings
You are able to send 1:1 messages and book meetings at a time convenient for both you and your prospect.
• Dedicated Meeting Space
Once a meeting has been confirmed on the app, you are automatically assigned a table number, making it easy to find your prospect onsite.
• Browse Agenda
Never miss a session or networking function by carrying the live agenda in your pocket. Bookmark your favorite sessions to help plan your day.
• Meet the Sponsors/Showcase Exhibitors
Get prepared by visiting the sponsor and showcase profiles, learning who will be representing them onsite.
Questions?
Head to Event App page on defenseconference.aviationweek.com or speak to staff at the registration desk onsite.
Premium Sponsor
Deltek
Deltek is the intelligent platform built for organizations doing the world’s most consequential work. We power the entire project lifecycle—from winning and planning to executing and analyzing—so teams can move faster, stay compliant, and deliver with confidence.
Trusted by 30,000 organizations worldwide, Deltek is purpose-built for project-driven, highly regulated environments, including A&D. Our platform brings together ERP, project management, finance, people, and intelligence into a single source of truth, giving leaders real-time visibility and control when the stakes are high.
Deltek delivers the market insight and industry expertise teams need to navigate complexity, manage risk, and adapt as missions evolve. When innovation moves fast and accountability matters, Deltek provides the speed, clarity, and control to help organizations perform at their best.
Bob Hughes, President & CEO
Bob Hughes is President and CEO of Deltek, where he leads a global team of more than 4,000 employees in delivering industry-specific solutions for project-based businesses. He joined Deltek in April 2024. Prior to Deltek, Bob served as Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at UKG, leading strategic growth initiatives including mergers and acquisitions, investments, and global expansion to benefit customers. Earlier, he led global services at Kronos and held M&A leadership roles at Blackbaud and Merrill Lynch. Bob is a former U.S. Navy submarine officer and a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.
As Deltek’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Dinakar Hituvalli oversees the company’s technology and cloud strategy, leading Engineering and Cloud Operations teams to drive best-in-class product innovation. He brings deep experience leading global development organizations delivering marketleading, large-scale SaaS enterprise solutions. An Agile evangelist, Dinakar is passionate about modern SDLC methodologies. Before joining Deltek, he spent 25 years at Oracle, most recently as Group Vice President of Product Development, where he led global teams for Cloud ERP applications, including financial and project portfolio management products, and drove innovation incorporating NLP, AI, and machine learning. Dinakar holds a B.S. from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science and an M.S. from the University of Toledo.
Margo Martin, SVP & Chief Customer Officer
As Deltek’s Chief Customer Officer, Margo Martin leads global customer operations and strategy, overseeing consulting, customer education and enablement, support, and success. Her mission is to deepen relationships by delivering a seamless and impactful end-to-end customer journey that maximizes value. Margo brings more than 20 years of experience serving Deltek customers, previously holding senior roles including Group Vice President of Customer Success and Vice President of Global Support, where she led the team responsible for Deltek’s J.D. Power Excellence in Support Award. Before Deltek, she was a Controller for a government contractor using Deltek’s first software. She holds a B.S. in Accounting from San Diego.
800.456.2009 www.deltek.com
Aviation Week Intelligence Network’s (AWIN) Global Defense Solutions provide the news, fleet data, analyses and forecasting models your organization needs. Start turning data into solutions and gain access to our complete defense portfolio, including:
Industry insights covering the latest developments
10-year outlooks of the military market
Military aircraft histories and global fleet tracking
Comprehensive view into hundreds of today’s top programs
NEW! Country profiles, budgets and contracts
To learn more, go to: aviationweek.com/GlobalDef
Gold Sponsor
Alderman & Company
Alderman & Company is the M&A banker of choice for middle-market aerospace and defense companies. Founded in 2001, the firm is exclusively focused on sell-side mergers and acquisitions, advising privately held and entrepreneur-owned businesses through complex, high-value transactions.
With more than two decades of sector dedication, Alderman & Company brings deep industry expertise, long-standing buyer relationships, and a disciplined process built specifically for the aerospace and defense market. The team understands the technical, regulatory, and strategic forces that drive valuefrom advanced manufacturing and engineered components to mission-critical defense technologies and specialized aerospace services.
Known for integrity, discretion, and results, Alderman & Company is a trusted partner for owners seeking a successful transition in the aerospace and defense industry. Its singular focus, rigorous preparation, and relentless advocacy help shareholders realize maximum value in transactions that shape the future of critical industries worldwide.
www.aldermanco.com
Gold Sponsor
Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Operating in three sectors – Life Sciences & Healthcare, Infrastructure & Cities, and Manufacturing Industries – we provide businesses and people with collaborative virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations.
A pioneer in computer-aided design founded in 1981, Dassault Systèmes has expanded into a diverse range of software categories, including 3D modeling, simulation, information intelligence, and social and collaborative processes. By creating virtual experience twins of the real world, our customers push the boundaries of innovation capable of harmonizing product, nature and life.
Dassault Systèmes’ customers use our 3DEXPERIENCE platform to design and test their ideas in the virtual world so they can better respond to today’s experience economy where consumers value experiences over products. 3DEXPERIENCE also extends into the organic world, where the human body can be modeled with a virtual experience twin and tested as precisely, safely and effectively as products in traditional industry.
Dassault Systèmes’ corporate culture promotes a questioning mindset, exploring possibilities and connecting people to bring about meaningful change. Dassault Systèmes’ nearly 25,000 employees bring value to over 370,000 customers of all sizes, in diverse industries, in 142 countries. For more information, visit us at www.3ds.com.
www.3ds.com
Gold Sponsor
Stratolaunch
Stratolaunch is an aerospace company pioneering advancements in hypersonic flight testing and technology development. The company operates Roc, the world’s largest aircraft, which serves as a unique platform for launching and testing high-speed systems.
At the center of Stratolaunch’s mission are the Talon-A hypersonic testbeds, reusable vehicles capable of reaching speeds greater than Mach 5. Stratolaunch has already achieved multiple successful hypersonic flight tests with Talon-A, demonstrating reliable system performance and validating its role as a key platform for rapid technology development. Through its hypersonic mission, Stratolaunch continues to advance the future of high-speed flight, laying the groundwork for next-generation air and space access.
www.stratolaunch.com
Meet the Team
Carol Wilkins, Sr. Conference Producer
Carol is responsible for developing the Aviation Week conference agenda and speaker selection. She works on finding the most topical issues and pairing with industry led and subject matter experts. If you are interested in participating in a future event, contact her directly at carol.wilkins@ aviationweek.com or connect via her LinkedIn page.
Naomi Hall, Marketing Manager
Naomi is the lead marketer for Aviation Week’s Aerospace & Defense events. She is focused on bringing together the commercial and defense sectors to further develop opportunities, knowledge, leadership and best practices.
Sergii Khalepa, Sr. Digital Marketing Specialist
Sergii supports the Aviation Week events team with the creation, implementation and analyzing of digital campaigns to drive attendance at our conferences and exhibitions. He works closely with the campaign managers to ensure optimal positioning for all of our events via digital channels including social media. His responsibilities include digital account management, web management and analytics.
Contact Us
To sponsor or exhibit, please contact your account representative:
All Americas/Canada
Rob Howlett
Sr. Director, NA Media
+1 440 539 0728 rob.howlett@aviationweek.com
Europe/Asia/Africa/ Middle East
Defne Alpay
Manager, Exhibit Sales
+44 (0) 7712 829859 defne@accessgroup.aero
General Information
Mobile/Cell Phones
Please ensure all mobile/cell phones are turned off or put onto silent when in the conference area.
Photography & Filming
Please be aware that photos will be taken by the press, the organizers and delegates in attendance. Please note that by attending, you consent to your voice and likeness being used without compensation in programs, films, tapes and print for use in any and all media, whether now known or hereafter devised. Furthermore, Aviation Week, its successors, assigns and licenses are relieved from any liability, on account of such usage.
Security
The venue has general security in place, however please note that personal possessions are left in the conference area at your own risk.
Recording
All sessions will be recorded and a summary paper sent to all registered attendees. Note that the conference summary will be done using AI.
The Chatham House Rule is a protocol for discussions where participants can freely share information, but the identity of the speaker or other attendees cannot be revealed outside of the meeting. It’s essentially an “on the record” rule, but with a guarantee of anonymity regarding who said what. This encourages open and honest discussion, especially on sensitive topics, as people don’t have to worry about being publicly quoted or attributed.
Note: Please request a speaker’s consent if you would like to use a direct quote.
Aviation Week thanks all of our sponsors and partners for their continued support.
Presented by
Premium Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Purposeful Partnership
E & AWAR DS
RO UN DTABL E & AWAR DS
OEM SYSTEM DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
LTAMDS Program
Raytheon
Off-Board Sensing Station X-Plane
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
M-LIDS Program Leonardo DRS
SUPPLIER SYSTEM SUSTAINMENT
OEM SYSTEM PRODUCTION
E-Freighter Program Embraer
OEM SYSTEM SUSTAINMENT
Japan COCO Program
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
TRVT Program
Raytheon
SUPPLIER SYSTEM DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
MXU-1072A Program
KIHOMAC
ADIRU Project
Asia Pacific Aircraft Component Services (APACS)
SUPPLIER SYSTEM PRODUCTION
Silent Knight Radar Raytheon
Honeywell Avionics E190 Embraer
Freighter Aircraft
Honeywell
SPECIAL PROJECTS
UK Protector UAS
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
Consent Agreement Program
Honeywell
SPARTA Program
Collins Aerospace
AIRLINE PROJECTS
Calibrate Program
United Airlines
SAF-Powered Engine Testing Program
Iberia Airlines
NEW ENTRANTS
Talon A Program Stratolaunch
AIRUS Program
AIRION Health
Hypersonic Test Bed Program
Kratos Space & Missile Defense Systems
2026 Evaluation Team
Diamond Sponsor Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Operating in three sectors – Life Sciences & Healthcare, Infrastructure & Cities, and Manufacturing Industries – we provide businesses and people with collaborative virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations.
A pioneer in computer-aided design founded in 1981, Dassault Systèmes has expanded into a diverse range of software categories, including 3D modeling, simulation, information intelligence, and social and collaborative processes. By creating virtual experience twins of the real world, our customers push the boundaries of innovation capable of harmonizing product, nature and life.
Dassault Systèmes’ customers use our 3DEXPERIENCE platform to design and test their ideas in the virtual world so they can better respond to today’s experience economy where consumers value experiences over products. 3DEXPERIENCE also extends into the organic world, where the human body can be modeled with a virtual experience twin and tested as precisely, safely and effectively as products in traditional industry.
Dassault Systèmes’ corporate culture promotes a questioning mindset, exploring possibilities and connecting people to bring about meaningful change. Dassault Systèmes’ nearly 25,000 employees bring value to over 370,000 customers of all sizes, in diverse industries, in 142 countries. For more information, visit us at www.3ds.com.
www.3ds.com
2026 Evaluation Team
Gold Sponsor
Elbit Systems of America
Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is a leading provider of highperformance products, system solutions, and support services focusing on the defense, homeland security, law enforcement, commercial aviation, and medical instrumentation markets. With facilities throughout the U.S., Elbit America is dedicated to supporting those who contribute daily to the safety and security of the United States. Elbit Systems of America, LLC is wholly owned by Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT and TASE: ESLT), a global high technology company engaged in a wide range of programs for innovative defense and commercial applications.
www.elbitamerica.com
Gold Sponsor Embraer
Embraer is a global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil. It manufactures aircraft for Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security, and Agricultural customers. The company also provides aftersales services & support through a worldwide network of wholly owned entities and authorized agents.
Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world, transporting over 150 million passengers a year.
Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 150 seats and is the main exporter of high value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service and parts distribution centers across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
www.embraer.com
2024 Evaluation Team
Our airspace is becoming more crowded and complex. That is why Honeywell Aerospace is collaborating with government, regulatory authorities and other aviation industry leaders to help shape the future of the skies we share.
Learn more about our unwavering focus on safety, innovation and modernization. Visit aerospace.honeywell.com:
2026 Evaluation Team
Gold Sponsor General Atomics Aeronautical
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. is a global leader in the design and manufacture of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), radars, and electro-optic mission systems. For 30+ years, GA-ASI has delivered cutting-edge technologies that have redefined modern warfare and advanced global security.
GA-ASI specializes in long-endurance, multi-mission UAS solutions that provide persistent situational awareness and rapid strike capabilities. The company’s Predator® series of UAS, which includes the MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®, and YFQ-42A, a new Collaborative Combat Aircraft, has logged over 9 million flight hours, making GA-ASI one of the most trusted suppliers in the defense industry.
GA-ASI’s systems are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern battlefields, from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to collaborative combat operations. The company’s platforms have been at the forefront of advancements in Manned-Unmanned Teaming, long-range targeting, and AntiSubmarine Warfare, as well as the development of short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability for UAS.
GA-ASI continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The company’s current focus is on advancing the capabilities of its flagship MQ-9B aircraft, ensuring the success of the revolutionary Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, and on leading in the development of next-generation technologies.
www.ga-asi.com
Gold Sponsor Honeywell
Products and services from Honeywell Aerospace Technologies are found on virtually every commercial, defense and space aircraft, and in many terrestrial systems. The Aerospace Technologies business unit builds aircraft engines, cockpit and cabin electronics, wireless connectivity, thermal, power and actuation systems, and more. Its hardware and software solutions create more fuel-efficient aircraft, more direct and on-time flights and safer skies and airports. For more information, visit aerospace.honeywell.com or follow Honeywell Aerospace Technologies on LinkedIn.
www.honeywell.com
PROTECTING WORLD OUR
With three market-leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities no one else can. Together, our global team pushes the boundaries of known science—and finds new ways to connect and protect our world.
Learn more at rtx.com
2026 Evaluation Team
Gold Sponsor RTX
With more than 180,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. With industry-leading capabilities, we advance aviation, engineer integrated defense systems for operational success, and develop next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2025 sales of more than $88 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
www.rtx.com
Silver Sponsor
www.ittaerospace.com/en-us
DAU
Warfighting Acquisition University (WarU) equips the acquisition workforce to rapidly accelerate delivery of warfighter capability through a talent management strategy that includes transformative education, collaborative partnerships, and a continuous drive for acquisition operational excellence. Approximately 160,000 acquisition professionals across all Military Services and agencies have access to career-long learning and support from WarU faculty and staff including a full range of certification and assignmentspecific training, credentials, continuous learning opportunities and online learning resources. Organizations with specific needs can take advantage of Field Training Services for timely onsite training and assistance.
www.dau.edu
PROGRAM EXCELLENCE MADE REAL.
Their real experience sets the bar in aerospace excellence every day. That’s why we proudly stand with the industry to congratulate the 2026 Aviation Week Program Excellence Awards winners and nominees.
The KC-390 Millennium is redefining the medium-sized airlifter segment. An unbeatable combination of new technologies, rapid reconfiguration, unrivalled mobility and lower operating costs has attracted operators from across the globe. Chosen by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, South Korea, Sweden and Slovakia, the multi-mission KC-390 Millennium has already accumulated more than 16,000 flight hours in five years of operational service, with a mission completion rate in excess of 99%.
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