Interview with Zbyněk Pavlačík, CEO and Co-Founder of Jagello 2000
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days has grown from humble beginnings into one of Europe’s premier security events. In this exclusive interview, Zbyněk Pavlačík reflects on key milestones, international recognition, and the event’s future ambitions.
Looking back at a quarter-century of NATO Days in Ostrava, what moment will you personally never forget?
The moment we decided to continue and organize the second edition after the success of our very first year at Černá louka.
The exhibition in Brussels was inaugurated by Czech President Petr Pavel and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, symbolizing international recognition. What feedback did you receive from diplomats and NATO officials?
It was an immense honor and an affirmation of international prestige at the highest possible level. Typically, the Secretary General does not personally attend every exhibition opening—there is at least one event weekly within the Brussels complex, and competition to attract attention is fierce. Therefore, we deeply appreciate that Mark Rutte evaluated attending our exhibition’s opening as important.
How has the perception of NATO Days among foreign partners evolved from the initial editions to today? Was there a breakthrough milestone?
A significant turning point occurred exactly twenty years ago when the first foreign military aircraft landed—two Tornado F3 jets from RAF Leuchars in Scotland. The following year, the RAF sent over twenty aircraft, including unique assets like the E3D Sentry AWACS, Harriers, Hawks, Tornado GR and F3, and especially the Red Arrows.
This became a crucial reference point, significantly increasing international participation since 2007. The RAF thus continues to play a key role in NATO Days.
At the exhibition, you highlighted growth not only in participant numbers but also in online viewers. How important is digital communication in promoting the event, and how do you plan to develop it further?
Digital engagement will continue to grow in importance, as online viewers now significantly outnumber on-site attendees. This year, we are testing an international livestream in English in collaboration with Britain’s Planes TV.
What does it personally mean to you that NATO Days are now considered one of Europe’s most prestigious security events?
It gives me a profound sense of pride in our team’s achievements and reinforces our commitment to maintaining this prestigious status in the future.
Which partner country surprised you the most in recent years, whether by their deployed equipment, professionalism, or public engagement?
The partner country component is something truly special, and we are very proud of it. Each country brings a unique approach, making the event more interesting for visitors. I’d particularly mention Romania, which, in 2019, became notable for transporting ground equipment overland from the greatest distance to date.
Organizing an event of this scale requires massive coordination. What has proven most effective over the past 25 years in terms of cooperation between the military, police, and other agencies?
Teamwork and our co-ownership approach with all partners and co-organizers have proven to be the most effective.
This year’s event marks a jubilee. Can we expect any special elements or participants you haven’t revealed yet?
We are working on it! 🙂
You have had a long-standing cooperation with NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division. What aspect of this support is most valuable, and what has it enabled you to achieve?
Certainly, it is crucial that NATO openly supports and endorses our event.
What are your dreams or plans for the future? Where do you see NATO Days in another ten years?
We are working towards featuring unmanned aerial vehicle demonstrations.
Interview by: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: Jagello 2000
