Day 1, WED, 14.05.2025: LAND Bekker Port, Marat 14, Tallinn, Exhibition Hall, MAIN STAGE
9.30-09.50 Margot ROOSE, Deputy Mayor, Tallinn City Government:
Being open and ready
Margot ROOSE is the Deputy Mayor for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Circularity in Tallinn. With a decade-long focus on sustainability and circularity, Margot is leading Tallinn to become the innovation testing center of Europe by opening up city infrastructure for real-life testing. She is driving the growth of the "Test in Tallinn" initiative, a city-wide innovation testing playground that has expanded to partner cities like Heidelberg and Helsinki. This initiative has enabled 30+ projects from 18 countries, addressing challenges in mobility, energy, education, crisis management, circularity, and health.
Margot ROOSE speaks about on how Tallinn is pioneering innovative solutions in urban setting and gearing up its crisis management preparedness. How could dual-use solutions enhance the human-centric services and city's preparedness in response to crises? Discover how the "Test in Tallinn" initiative provides opportunities for companies to test their solutions in a real-world urban environment. International partnerships with other cities for enabling innovation sharing and testing in multiple cities. Circular Economy and the importance of material availability and circulation in urban planning and crisis management.
09.50-10.25 Waldemar KROL (POL), CEO of Orlen Estonia:
How to empower and secure infrastructure
Waldemar KROL is the CEO and a board member of Orlen Estonia, the country’s largest fuel supplier and part of the PKN Orlen Capital Group-Central and Eastern Europe’s leading multi-utility company89. He holds a Master’s degree in Economics and International Business from the University of Wales5. With extensive experience in business development and expansion strategies, Król is also active in promoting sustainability, innovation, and youth engagement through initiatives such as scholarships for students in energy, mobility, and environmental fields.
Waldemar KROL will speak about how to empower and secure critical infrastructure, focusing on strategies for strengthening energy security and resilience in the region.
10.25-10.50 Margo KLAOS, Estonian Rescue Board, General Director:
Preparedness of Civilians, Status and Developments
Margo KLAOS. Since 1994, he has served in the rescue service. He holds a BA in Rescue Technology from the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences and an MA in Public Management from Tallinn Technical University. From 2006 to 2023, he was Head of the Southern Rescue Centre and the South-Estonian Regional Crisis Committee, and from 2015 to 2017, he led the Civil Protection Task Force at the Government Office.
Margo KLAOS emphasises the importance of preparing the population for crises and highlights that effective civil defence relies on close collaboration between organisations and countries. They also stress that identifying the best ways to implement new technologies during crises serves the interests of all organisations involved.
11.15-11.40 Marco KRJIGSMAN (NED), Dell Technologies, EMEA Team Lead | Field Director
Computer Vision AI | Defence and Security:
“Solutions for where the digital world and physical world intersect”
Marco KRIJGSMAN is the EMEA Team Leader for Computer Vision AI and Edge Verticals at Dell Technologies. With over 20 years of experience in business unit management, international business development, and enablement in the AI and computer vision sectors, he leads teams focused on innovative solutions for defence, security, and industrial applications across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Marco KRIJGSMAN will speak about the use of AI-powered computer vision and edge technologies to enhance defence and security operations, focusing on innovative solutions for complex environments and real-time situational awareness in defence and policing.
11.40-12.05 Milan SVOBODA (CZ), International Sales Manager, Vzduchotechnik s.r.o.:
Stay safe
Milan SVOBODA is a member of the executive board at Vzduchotechnik s.r.o., a Czech company. With extensive experience in technical management and project implementation, he plays a key role in overseeing company operations and business development in the HVAC sector.
Milan SVOBODA will speak about safety and protection solutions for critical infrastructure, focusing on advanced ventilation and air handling technologies that enhance security and resilience in defence environments.
12.05-12.30 Jaanus TAMM, CEO and founder of DefSecIntel Solutions:
Lessons from land warfare from Ukraine
Jaanus TAMM is a technology enthusiast with over 20 years of experience in the fields of technology and defence. He has been a co-founder and investor in several IT, homeland security, and defence companies.
He is currently the CEO of DefSecIntel Solutions, a leading Estonian defence company which he founded in 2018. The company develops and manufactures smart autonomous surveillance systems and counter-UAS solutions enhanced with artificial intelligence for border security and defence applications.
DefSecIntel Solutions also has a factory in Ukraine, and its systems are combat proven. Jaanus is recognized as an expert in defence technology and innovation.
He is a member of the Supervisory Board of the Estonian Defence and Aerospace Industry Association as well as the Estonian Defence Cluster. In 2024, he was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year, and in 2025, he was awarded the Order of the White Star, IV Class.
Jaanus TAMM’s speech in brief: The war in Ukraine has reshaped the modern battlefield and transformed both the needs of defence forces and the offerings of the defence industry. From rapid drone proliferation to electronic warfare and layered air defence, the operational environment is evolving faster than ever—demanding rapid R&D cycles.
Defsecintel Solutions has maintained a strong presence in Ukraine, working closely with frontline units and defence stakeholders. Our systems—mainly for the land domain—have been developed based on real battlefield feedback and in close alignment with end-user requirements.
This presentation highlights the lessons learned by Defsecintel Solutions in Ukraine, and explains how battlefield experience has shaped our approach to autonomous surveillance systems, counter-UAS/USHORAD solutions, and how agile defence innovation can directly support defence forces and homeland security end-users.
12.30-12.50 Kalev REILJAN, COO of Digilogistics Centre of Estonia:
Digitalization of Logistics as an Enabler of Efficient Movement of People and Goods
Kalev REILJAN is a seasoned top executive and entrepreneur from Estonia. Wide experience from IT, telecoms, energy, healthcare, real estate, security and logistics industries.
Kalev has worked as top executive in Nokia and Nokia Siemens Networks (Head of Sales in 2000-2008), Telia Company (CTO in 2008-2018), Elenger (Executive Board member in 2018-2022), Confido (Group CEO in 2022-2023) and Forus Group (Group CEO in 2023-2024). Kalev is currently COO of Digilogistics Centre, offering supply chain digitalization solutions and consultancy services. ESTBAN member and active angel investor in Estonia and Finland.
Kalev Reiljan has graduated from Taltech and is a proud MBA alumnus of IMD, Switzerland.
At Defence Expo Kalev REILJAN will speak about the importance of logistics and logistics data in the defence context.
12.50-13.15 Edward BISHOP (UK), Samsung, Developments in Cyber Security:
Adopting Consumer Devices for the Tactical User – the benefits and challenges of harnessing consumer devices in Defence.
Edward BISHOP is an engineer of over 10 years experience in enterprise mobility. With a strong background in both infrastructure engineering and presales consulting, Edward has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the defence and military sector. His passion for mobile and cybersecurity drives his commitment to helping customers leverage Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) smartphones for various specialist use cases.
Throughout his career, Edward has worked closely with defence organisations to design and implement secure, scalable and efficient IT systems. His engineering background and expertise in enterprise mobility solutions has enabled him to advise customers on how to effectively integrate smartphones into their operations to enhance productivity, security, and overall mission success.
Join us as Edward shares his insights and expertise on the latest advancements enabling smartphones on the battlefield, and discover how Samsung's innovative solutions can empower your organisation develop or operate solutions in the Defence space.
Edward BISHOP’s speech bullet points are:
• Benefits of Adaptive COTS Technology Procurement
• Samsung Galaxy Rugged Portfolio
• Samsung Software Customisation Services
• Tactical Baseline on Samsung Galaxy
• Managing a Smartphone in a Tactical Environment
13.15-13.45 Nick WASHER (UK), ex Royal Navy Rear Admiral, Nortal Defence Global:
Digital Transformation in Defence
During his 34-year career in the Royal Navy as a warfare officer, NICK WASHER held a variety of sea and staff appointments, commanded at multiple levels, and specialised in communications and electronic warfare. Combining operational and technical expertise, he has built a reputation as an experienced leader in digital and cyber operations. Most recently, as Director of Operations in Defence Digital, Washer was responsible for IT live services across defence, customer engagement, operational planning, operational service management, defensive cyber operations, management of the defence electro-magnetic spectrum and high-grade messaging services.
Nick WASHER will talk about the importance of cutting legacy systems, managing digital sovereignty, and future-proofing against crises in the defence sector. This aligns with Nortal's expertise in secure digital solutions and defence technologies
Cybersecurity and Information Warfare: As someone responsible for defensive cyber operations, he might explore strategies for countering disinformation and influence operations, which are increasingly relevant in modern conflicts
Operational Efficiency through Technology: Nick could highlight how digital innovations can enhance operational planning, service management, and customer engagement within defence organizations, drawing from his experience in Defence Digital
Integration of Emerging Technologies: He might also discuss the integration of emerging technologies like AI and cloud services into defence operations to improve resilience and deterrence capabilities.
13.45-14.30 PANEL DISCUSSION on Land Defense & Summary of the day hosted by Robert Juodka (LIT), Lithuanian Defence and Security Industry Association; Participants: speakers
Day 2, THU, 15.05.2025: AIR Bekker Port, Marat 14, Tallinn, Exhibition Hall, MAIN STAGE
9.30-09.35 Hanno PEVKUR, Minister of Defence of Estonia
Hanno PEVKUR assumed office as the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Estonia on 18 July 2022. Prior to that, he was a member of the 13th and 14th Riigikogu from 2016 to 2022 and has held several ministerial positions: Minister of the Interior (2014-2016), Minister of Justice (2012-2014), and Minister of Social Affairs (responsible for the fields of work, health, and social protection). Having started his career in law, he went on to serve in the Nõmme District Administration in Tallinn in 2000-2005, first as an administrative secretary and later as city district elder. In 2005–2007, he was a member of the Tallinn City Council, Chairman of the Nõmme District Administrative Board, and an advisor to the Minister of Justice. In 2007–2009, he was a member of the 11th Riigikogu.
09.35-10.00 Jussi VOUTILAINEN (FIN), Vice President, Business Management, Baltics, Nammo Lapua OY:
What have Defense Industry learned from the war in Ukraine and what could have been done better and what we shuold do in the future.
Jussi VOUTILAINEN, Vice President, Business Defelopment, Baltics, at Nammo.
Commander (GS) ret. Graduate from Finnish Cadet Academy and from Military University, 30 year career in Finnish Defense Forces
Jussi VOUTILAINEN: We have learned during last three years that we have to work more together and this event is one example that we are aiming towards this goal.
10.00-10.25 Marek ALLIKSOO, CEO, SKYCORP Technologies:
Hydrogen as the new energy carrier accelerating distributed energy in military and civil resistance to the aggressor. Surviving attacks to civil energy infrastructure
Marek ALLIKSOO is a leading industry expert in Hydrogen Technologies, Unmanned Aerial Systems, the combination of the two and an ecosystem developer of future vertical airspace.
Marek is the chairman of the advisory board of the Estonian Drone Centre of Applied Research, a founder of Hydrogen Valley Estonia and the ZeroEST climate neutral manned and unmanned aviation ecosystem, on the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance’s Mobility working group, Alliance for Zero Emission Aviation and the International Hydrogen Aviation Association. He is a frequent speaker at international events, advisor at government working groups, roadmap, strategy, legislation planning committees (incl. EU level) and is contributing towards the concept and development of the Estonian Hydrogen Valley.
Marek ALLIKSOO’s speech wil cover:
• There's a crucial difference between "security of supply" and "energy security", which is still confusing for many - one works at the time of crisis and the other doesn't, COVID should have been the wake-up call, but the war in Ukraine definitely is.
• Renewable energy is distributed energy, what's easier to attack physically or virtually - thousands of renewable energy installations or centralised coal, gas-fired or nuclear plants? We got those answers in Ukraine, where PV parks still produce after multiple direct rocket hits, while attacks at centralised energy infrastructure meant that over 5million people where without heat & power towards the end of 2022.
• The big "silver bullet" missing from the picture, has been longer-term energy storage (which could still remain mobile) and that is what hydrogen brings to the table. It can be generated anywhere and transported anywhere, moreover, it doesn't decay.
• So, whose interest is it not to have energy security through renewable energy and renewable storage? (Winners include, hostile nations, oil& gas and disaster/war profiteers)
• Hydrogen is nothing new, as an earlier example, back in 1894 green hydrogen was generated and stored a small village in Denmark up throughout the world wars without a single power cut. Just a bit too ideal to have something decentralised, distributed and democratized just ahead of the big O&G revolution.
• Not unfamiliar to defence - hydrogen has been extensively tested by US DoD and others with applications from Jeeps to generators to submarines to drones
• Learnings: Earlier adoption, larger scale deployment, readiness/willingness, better resistance to hostile lobbying and strategic funding could have all helped create the infrastructure resilience pro-actively.
◦ Grey/blue hydrogen is not a solution as it's still O&G centralised and can be targeted the same way.
◦ Future: European Hydrogen Backbone, integration to NATO standards/ConOps, technological progress and deployment, energy islands and the overall transition towards a new distributed energy infrastructure.
10.25-10.50 Eduard VAINU, COO of Meridein Group:
Developments of Threats and Defense
Eduard VAINU is an experienced leader in the unmanned aviation and defence industry. As the Chief Operations Officer at Meridein Group, he oversees strategic growth, partnerships, and business development in all three Baltic states. With a defence, engineering, and drone services background, Eduard deeply understands the global unmanned aviation and security landscape.
Eduard VAINU’s speech will consist:
• Historic overview
• Current trends
• Detection, jamming and risk management
• Future trends and what can we expect for next 5 years.
10.50-11.15 Žilvinas Kvedaravičius (LIT), CCO and Co-owner of UDS:
Drones vs tanks
11.15-11.40 Bram ALKEMA (NED), endboss of DeltaQuad:
"Dutch Drone Experience"
11.40-12.05 James ACUNA (US), Former CIA Sr. Operations Officer, from Baltic Ghost Wing Center of Excellence:
Tactics Techniques and Procedures- What we can learn about drone warfare from the Ukrainians and why should you care.
James ACUNA is the Founder and Strategic Director of the Baltic Ghost Wing Center of Excellence and Proving Grounds in Jõhvi and Sonda, Estonia. A former CIA Senior Case Officer and Manager, Acuna also held leadership roles at DARPA, System Planning Corporation, and in classified programs supporting allied defense initiatives. At Baltic Ghost Wing, he’s applying decades of experience to professionalize UAS/CUAS training and testing, focusing on combat-realistic conditions, dual-use innovation, and workforce development shaped by lessons from Ukraine.
James ACUNA’s speech will focus on how Ukraine’s battlefield innovations with drones are reshaping how we think about warfare—driven by rapid iteration, decentralized production, and adaptive TTPs. This session explores how these lessons impact defense supply chains, operational planning, and the integration of low-cost, high-impact unmanned systems into modern force structures.
12.05-12.30 Dr. h. c. Dirk NIEBEL, Federal Minister (ret.) (GER), Head of International Strategy Developement and Government Relations at Rheinmetall AG:
Technology and Innovation, Future Force Preparedness
Dr. h. c. Dirk NIEBEL. After serving as a paratrooper for eight years, Dirk Niebel studied public administration. He then worked as an employment agent.
He was a member of the German Bundestag for four legislative periods (1998–2013). At the same time, he served as Secretary-General of the Free Democratic Party (2005–2009). From 2009 to 2013, he was Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development and responsible for an annual budget of EUR 6.33 billion.
Since January 2015, he has been Head of International Strategy Development and Government Relations at Rheinmetall AG.
He was a member of the German Bundestag for four legislative periods (1998–2013). At the same time, he served as Secretary-General of the Free Democratic Party (2005–2009). From 2009 to 2013, he was Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development and responsible for an annual budget of EUR 6.33 billion.
Dr. h. c. Dirk NIEBEL highlights the need to prepare the population for crises, emphasising that effective civil defence depends on close collaboration between organisations and countries. He also notes that finding the best ways to implement new technologies during crises serves the interests of all organisations involved.
12.30-12.55 Reelika MÕTTUS, Head of Defense and Government Sector of Baltic States:
Logistics is the backbone of military
Reelika MÕTTUS is in Logistics since 2004. In military logistics since 2012. I have done that niche logistics by now 13 years. From envelope till chartering aircrafts and vessels. All sort of variety of military and strategic cargo. Having knowledges and experience issuieng transit permits and EU regulations.
Background, studies, positions, achivements. I have served EDF and ECDI logistics since 2012. By now we have very good experience delivering cargo to the Ukraine, allies and mission areas , where our troops have boots on the ground.
Reelika MÕTTUS: In defense and security efficient logistics are critical. Also it is great opportunity to connect with defense officials and security experts, industrial leaders, potentially forming partnerships with government and military clients. Goals - establish connections with defense agencies, suppliers and contractors who need specialized logistics support
Companies supplying equipment, technology and services to defense industry. NATO representatives, Ministry of Defense, procurement officers responsible for military logistics.
12.55-13.55 PANEL DISCUSSION on Air Defence & Summary of the day hosted by Eduard Vainu, COO of Meridein Group; Participants: speakers
Day 3, FRI, 16.05.2025: SEA Bekker Port, Marat 14, Tallinn, Exhibition Hall, MAIN STAGE
9.30-09.55 Kaupo LÄÄNERAND, Vice Minister for Maritime and Water Affairs:
Estonian Maritime Sector’s Value Offering to the International Defence and Security
Community
Kaupo LÄÄNERAND is Vice Minister for Maritime and Water Affairs in the Ministry of Climate in Estonia. Mr Läänerand is maritime expert with long managerial experience in international shipping and the public sector. After having worked abroad in the merchant fleet and offshore sector, he became Head of the Fleet in the Police and Border Guard Board (Coast Guard functions) in Estonia, where he initiated reforms resulting in greater efficiency, more joint operations and increased cooperation at various levels.
Kaupo LÄÄNERAND as Vice Minister, he is actively finding solutions to improve Estonia as a maritime nation. This includes creating competitive and sustainable maritime policy, consolidating government owned fleet, protecting maritime environment, increasing the Estonian flag competitiveness and implementing green policy in maritime sectors. Three of the latest initiatives are preparing Ukrainian Maritime Recovery Plan and supporting creation of Estonian Marine Greentech & RetrofitHub and Estonian Maritime Cluster.
One of key challenges is also reforming the water management sector in Estonia to be more efficient and sustainable. Climate changes require stronger resilience both in the water management and blue economy sectors, which is one of the strategic aims for Vice Minister.
09.55-10.25 Charles BEYROUTHY (US), Founder and Managing Partner at Forma Prime (an early-stage venture capital fund that invests in advanced technologies developing the next generation of core components and infrastructure)
Charles BEYROUTHY is an Innovation Specialist and Venture Capital expert that cultivates innovation partnerships, start-up initiatives and due diligence operations. Charles has conducted research and applied innovative and novel technologies at top firms in different verticals including deep tech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, life sciences, materials and process optimization. He was also a startup co-founder at LabCloud, a software platform dedicated to optimizing laboratory operations and logistics. Charles has worked with and collaborated with numerous startups, VC funds and signed top firms including ThermoFisher Scientific, Amazon.com and Staples. He also advised firms in Healthcare and Fintech. Charles’ R&D and innovation experience includes roles at Citizens Financial Group, Brown University’s Department of Chemistry, Abbott Laboratories, Dartmouth Medical School and the Silvio O. Conte National Center for Polymer Research. Charles holds a double degree with Honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology.
And
Meelis KIILI, Member of National Defence Committee of Estonian Parliament
Meelis KIILI is an Estonian Major General (retired) and politician, currently a member of the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) since 2023. He served as Commander of the Estonian Defence League from 2012 to 2019, was Commandant of the Baltic Defence College, and acted as Estonia’s Defence Attaché to the US and Canada. Kiili has extensive experience in national defence, international military cooperation, and crisis management. He holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College and has been involved in both operational and leadership roles within the Estonian Defence Forces and NATO.
Meelis KIILI will discover: What do we really need on a strategic level
10.25-10.50 Igor TARO, Minister of Internal Affairs:
Maritime Crisis Resilience - National Governments vs International Cooperation
Igor TARO is an Estonian journalist and politician who has served as Minister of the Interior since March 2025. He studied journalism at Moscow State University and worked as a correspondent and editor for several Estonian media outlets, including Õhtuleht, Postimees, and Estonian Public Broadcasting. Taro has held positions such as tourism coordinator at Võrumaa Development Agency, marketing manager at Värska Sanatorium, and County Governor of Põlva. He was elected to the Estonian parliament (Riigikogu) in 2023 as a member of the Eesti 200 party. Before becoming minister, he also served as Secretary-General of Eesti 200.
Igor TARO’s speech will likely highlight Estonia’s experience, current priorities, and the need for regional and technological cooperation to ensure security and resilience in the face of evolving threats.
10.50-11.15 Rene PÄRT, Chief Business Development Officer, Tallinn Port:
The Role of Harbours in Strengthening Energy Security and Empowering the Defence Industry's Supply Chain
Rene PÄRT is an experienced leader in the maritime and logistics industry. As the Chief Business Development Officer at Port of Tallinn, he oversees strategic growth, partnerships, and new business opportunities. With a background in both international business development and maritime operations, Pärt has a deep understanding of the global transport and logistics landscape.
Rene PÄRT’s speech will cover:
• Transformation of the cargo harbours
• The importance of transport connections
• Harbours as energy HUBs - offshore wind, alternative fuels and electrification
• Harbours as industrial complexes - manufacturing and value added services in the defence industry.
11.15-11.35 Aimo KÕVA, Datel Spacetech Practical Session:
Civil Satellite Technologies in Defence
Aimo KÕVA is a Director of International Operations and Business Development at Datel AS with a strong background in the ICT sector and project management, particularly in the development of geoinformation systems. Aimo is actively involved in advancing remote monitoring services developed by Datel AS. Early Warning System- Sille.Space, and space services designed to combat illegal construction activities, such as the Detection of Unauthorized Construction Activities.
Aimo KÕVA will talk how preparing the population for crises and ensuring effective civil defence relies on close collaboration between organisations and countries.
It is in every organisation’s best interest to find optimal ways to implement new technologies during crises.
11.35-12.00 Amir Alon, (ISR) VP Marketing & Business Development at DSIT..Solutions:
Underwater Domain Awareness
Amir ALON is a retired Navy Captain with rich experience in the naval domain and Business Development, originating from almost two and a half decades of service in the Israeli Navy and a decade at Elbit Naval Systems.
Amir ALON speaks how effective crisis preparedness requires educating the population, fostering close collaboration between organisations and countries, and ensuring that all parties seek the best ways to implement new technologies during crises.
Topics he will cover:
Securing essential coastal facilities.
Local and over-the-horizon underwater detection.
Complete solutions against DIVERS , DPV’s, UUV’s, SDV’s and Submarines.
12.00-12.25 Magnus Valdemar SAAR (or deputy), CEO of Estonian Centre for Defence:
Wonderland of joint-Procurements
National Armament Director Estonian Centre for Defence Investments Mr Magnus-Valdemar SAAR is a senior Estonian civil servant with extensive experience in national defence planning, resource management and investments, military supply chain operations, and logistics. Since May 2021, he has served as the Director General of the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI). In addition, he holds the role of National Armaments Director, overseeing national defence investments, acquisitions and procurement, supply chain operations, and real estate management and development.
The ECDI manages a budget exceeding one billion euros—representing over 50% of Estonia’s total defence expenditure. Mr Saar holds a Master of Science in Engineering from Tallinn University of Technology and a diploma from the Estonian Military Academy. He has 18 years of experience as a military oſcer, having served in various leadership and staž roles, including company commander, staž oſcer, and
commander of the Estonian Defence Forces Logistics School. He has also pursued specialised studies in military logistics at the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics School and the United States Army Logistics University.
Mr Saar joined the ECDI at its inception in 2017 as Head of Plans. From 2018 to 2020, he served at the Ministry of Defence, and from 2020 until his appointment as Director General in May 2021, he led the ECDI’s Procurement Department
12.25-12.50 Ebbe DERAAS (NOR), Cluster Manager of Nordic Defence and Security Cluster: Perspectives, Necessities and Realities for Nordic-Baltic Defence Cooperation
Ebbe DERAAS, Cluster Manager NORDSEC (Nordic Defence and Security Cluster).
Experienced Commanding Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the security and defence industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Operations Management, Customer Service, Business Development, Coaching, and Government. Strong military and protective services professional and a retired Army Colonel: Graduated from the Norwegian National Defence College, Joint Sercvices Command and Staff College (UK) and Kings College.
Currently the Cluster Manager of NORDSEC (Nordic Defence and Security Cluster.
12.50-13.15 Robert GARBETT (UK), Founder and Chief Executive, Drone Major Group Limited: A Future Model for Modern Defence Procurement
Robert GARBETT is one of the world’s leading experts in drone technology and the Founder and Chief Executive of Drone Major Group Limited, a global consultancy specialising in drone and counter-drone solutions across all domains-land, maritime, air, and space. An ex-army entrepreneur, he concluded his military career in 2007 as head of airworthiness for the Defence Logistics Organisation, overseeing all aircraft platforms for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Through Drone Major Group, Robert advises defence, critical national infrastructure, and commercial organisations on adopting advanced drone technologies, leveraging an extensive international supplier network to deliver tailored, innovative solutions. He also founded the Drone Delivery Group, uniting senior stakeholders from industry and government-including the Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority-to accelerate drone adoption in the UK.
Robert has played a pivotal role in shaping drone industry standards, chairing the British Standards Institution’s committee on drone and counter-drone standards and leading the UK delegation to the ISO committee responsible for global drone safety standards. He is widely recognised for his authoritative work on standards and for advising governments and corporates on the commercial potential and regulatory frameworks required for the rapidly expanding drone sector.
Robert GARBETT speaks about a proposition of how Defence Organisations can build and sustain a relationship with technology providers and industry (major primes and SME) that enables the technology choices that will drive globally pace-setting modernisation and transformation.
13.15-13.40 Heiti MERING, Founder & CEO, Digital Logistics Centre of Excellence:
Baltic Sea Triangle
Heiti MERING is a visionary leader in logistics digitalization with over 25 years of experience in the IT and logistics sectors. As the founder and CEO of Digital Logistics Centre of Excellence, he has pioneered transformative solutions for secure, efficient cross-border cargo transportation systems.
Mr. Mering was the initiator of Estonia's groundbreaking Single Window concept—a unified digital platform for multimodal international transportation data. This achievement demonstrates his expertise in creating secure, standardized frameworks for sensitive cargo information exchange. Currently, he leads concept development for implementing electronic freight data (eFTI) networks across European markets, with particular focus on Baltic Sea region connectivity.
His deep understanding of logistics security stems from his role as Product Manager for Estonian Railways' Railcar Tracking System, where he developed robust monitoring capabilities essential for supply chain integrity. His targeted digitalization initiatives have led to collaborations with multiple national governments and the European Commission on secure freight transport solutions.
With his unique combination of technical expertise, logistics knowledge, and governmental experience, Heiti MERING brings valuable insights to the critical intersection of supply chain digitalization and security in Baltic Sea cargo transportation.
13.40-14.20 PANEL DISCUSSION on Sea Defence & Summary of the day, hosted by Ebbe Deraas (NOR), Nordic Defence and Security Cluster; Participants: speakers