Adam Drnek, the driving force behind the Future Forces Forum & Exhibition and Chairman of the Board of Future Advanced Technologies Institute, is renowned for his humility, sharp insight, integrity, and relentless drive. With a career spanning from assisting defense attachés to steering one of the most influential defense forums globally, Adam shares his hands-on experiences and vision. In this dynamic interview, he discusses the Future Forces Forum’s mission to bridge the gap between defense and security stakeholders, highlights the importance of adapting to rapidly evolving threats through technological innovation, and underscores the critical role of international collaboration and networking in ensuring global security.
Can you provide an overview of the Future Forces Forum (FFF) and its primary objectives?
The mission of the FFF project is to connect relevant stakeholders in the security and defense sectors at both national and international levels. Our goal is to create the best possible conditions for sharing experiences and needs from the user’s side—armed forces, security services, critical infrastructure, government, and international organizations—and the suppliers’ side, mainly manufacturers and suppliers of technology and services, as well as research and development organizations, including academia. Essentially, it’s about connecting the demand and supply of security and defense technologies and services, with the added dimension of mutual exchange of information on current and future needs and capabilities. However, the reality is organizationally challenging, as it involves linking a wide range of entities, some of which might not appear directly related to security or defense but are essential for ensuring their functionality and effectiveness.
How has the Future Forces Forum evolved since its inception, and what have been its key milestones?
The roots of our activities lie in the regular meetings of NATO working groups, specifically focusing on dismounted soldier systems (DSS) and associated specialized exhibitions. The first event took place in 1985 in Lisbon under the name Combat Clothing & Personal Equipment (CCPE) and followed a three-year cycle. Until 2000, when it was held in Prague for the first time, it was open only to a limited circle of exhibitors from NATO member states. In Prague, we opened it to other entities, which received very positive feedback. Subsequently, we organized a continuation under the name NATO Combat Clothing & Individual Equipment (CCIE) in Nitra, Slovakia, in 2003. After the success of 2000 and 2003, a follow-up was planned in Romania, but various reasons prevented it, and the event returned to Prague in 2008 under the name Future Soldier Exhibition. Since then, it has been held every two years within the FUTURE FORCES FORUM (FFF) project, which includes various activities in the security and defense sectors. The international exhibition is one of the main components of the FFF, held under the name Future Forces Exhibition. The name transitioned from Future Soldier to Future Forces in 2014 to encompass other elements of the armed and security forces and broaden the scope beyond DSS. Throughout these years, we have experienced various stages of development, from which we have built and continue to develop a project with wide international recognition.
What are the main thematic areas for FFF 2024, and why were these particular themes chosen?
The thematic focus of FFF events always corresponds to the current needs and trends in the security and operational environment. When determining topics, we draw from strategic and conceptual documents of the Alliance, the Ministry of Defense of the Czech Republic, and other sources. Long-term cooperation with the Ministry of Defense of the Czech Republic and other components of the state’s security system, the academic community, and international organizations, mainly NATO and the EDA, is crucial. Specific topics reflect current or future needs, threats, and opportunities. The pace of threat evolution is accelerating, leading to an urgent need to prepare thoroughly. We face the necessity of adapting to new types of threats, both conventional and unconventional. New challenges and opportunities also arise from the constant development and use of various technologies, which can be both beneficial and harmful. Among our stable themes are the development of air forces—especially pilot training and newly, drone operators; development of ground forces—command and control systems; cyber defense and security; CBRN, crisis and military healthcare; autonomous systems and robotics; internal security and state resilience; and from our historical roots, individual equipment, armament, and protection, which applies to both military and civilian security systems. This year, expert panels will also cover topics such as multi-domain operations, innovations in security and defense, space technologies, and experiences and lessons from the war in Ukraine, both in military and civilian-security contexts.
How does FFF facilitate collaboration between NATO working groups and international partners?
International cooperation is essential for the success of our activities and fulfilling our mission of sharing information, experiences, and needs. Delegates from more than 60 countries participate in the FFF program in Prague every two years, clearly indicating our scope beyond NATO, which remains crucial for us. Collaboration with NATO working groups is vital from the users’ perspective—for meeting identified needs, and from the suppliers’ perspective—for the industry and research, development, and innovation organizations to respond promptly to these needs. Since last year, all FFF activities have been transferred under the non-profit organization Future Advanced Technologies Institute, which aims to deepen and stabilize cooperation with all state and non-state organizations. Through our expert advisors and guarantors of individual thematic areas, it also aims to contribute to expert publication and analytical activities.
How does FFF support networking opportunities among defense and security experts?
Networking is the cornerstone of our events’ success, and I perceive it not only as an exchange of contacts but as enabling interactions, both formal—during expert panels or bilateral meetings, and informal—during events like the FFF Party, between relevant entities—individuals from the security and defense environment and potential technology suppliers or service providers. We continuously strive to create an environment within the FFF for the most straightforward community connections, which we hope will be further facilitated by a new app we are currently testing, available in mobile and online (PC) versions, allowing FFF participants to connect directly. Besides, it will carry much other information about the program, exhibitors, etc.
What technological innovations have been presented at FFF, and how do they influence the future of defense and security?
At the Future Forces Exhibition, new and innovative technologies are regularly presented, and this year will be no exception. We already know of several world premieres set to take place in Prague at FFF. Additionally, many technologies and products that have proven themselves in the ongoing war in Ukraine will be showcased. The thematic areas certainly include autonomous and robotic systems, which we have been focusing on since 2014, with our guarantor, Col.Assistant Prof. Jan Mazal, Ph.D., head of the Department of Military Robotics at the University of Defense. Many of the things we heard about during one of the FFF conferences ten years ago are now being seen in Ukraine. This war will likely accelerate the development and use of robotic systems on the battlefield and help develop their use in logistics and medical applications.
How does FFF address current global security challenges, and what solutions are proposed?
The FFF provides a platform for discussing and proposing solutions to current global security challenges through its expert panels and collaborative activities. By facilitating the exchange of information, experiences, and innovative approaches, the FFF helps shape strategies and responses to emerging threats.
What is the significance of the various conferences and workshops held during FFF, such as the Future Air Force Conference and CBRN & Medical Conference?
Each of our expert panels, which include conferences, workshops, seminars, and discussion panels within the FFF, has its character and objectives based on current needs in the respective field. Generally, they aim to share information about threats, needs, approaches, and available or developing technologies and services in security and defense. These events provide a platform for professionals to exchange knowledge, discuss innovations, and explore solutions to current challenges. The Future Air Force Conference, for instance, focuses on the latest developments in air force capabilities and technologies, while the CBRN & Medical Conference addresses the critical areas of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense, along with military medicine.
How does FFF influence domestic and international policy in defense and security?
The FFF is a purely professional platform without intentional political influences or ambitions in this direction. We may contribute indirectly through the outputs of our expert panels and international networking, but it’s not our primary aim to influence policies. Instead, we focus on fostering a collaborative environment where experts from various sectors can share insights and experiences. The discussions and outcomes from our events may, however, inform and inspire policymakers as they develop strategies and policies for national and international security.
What role do government bodies and the private sector play in FFF, and how do they collaborate within the forum?
Government bodies and the private sector are integral to the success of the FFF. Their collaboration is essential for bridging the gap between the needs of the defense and security sectors and the solutions that industry can provide. Government bodies, including ministries, armed forces, security services, and international organizations, bring the perspective of users, regulators, and policymakers. On the other hand, the private sector—comprising manufacturers, technology suppliers, and service providers—offers innovative solutions and capabilities. The FFF facilitates dialogue and cooperation between these two groups, ensuring that the solutions developed are aligned with the actual needs of users. This collaboration is crucial for addressing current and future challenges in defense and security effectively.
What are your expectations for the future of the Future Forces Forum, and how do you see it evolving?
My expectations for the Future Forces Forum are rooted in its continued growth and relevance as a global platform for defense and security. I envision the FFF evolving to address emerging threats and challenges, adapting its thematic focus to stay ahead of developments in technology and global security dynamics. We will continue to strengthen our collaboration with international partners, expand our network of participants, and enhance the quality and impact of our expert panels and exhibitions. Ultimately, I hope the FFF will continue to be a catalyst for innovation and cooperation in the defense and security sectors, contributing to a safer and more secure world.
Text by: Katerina Urbanová
Photo credit: Luděk Krušinský, FFF Archive