Global Air and Space Chief conference talks deterrence

The Chief of the Air Staff’s Global Air and Space Chiefs’ Conference 2024, held in London, brought together air and space power leaders from around the world to discuss deterrence and the importance of international collaboration in an increasingly volatile and contested global landscape.

Hosted by Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Sir Rich Knighton, the conference saw the participation of industry leaders, technology experts, and international academics.

This year’s focus was particularly significant as it marked the 75th anniversary of NATO, reflecting on evolving threats in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific regions.

In his keynote speech, ACM Knighton underscored the heavy toll of war, using Ukraine’s current conflict as an example of the devastating costs in terms of lives lost, equipment destroyed, and financial strain.

He reminded attendees of the long-term financial repercussions of war, citing the UK’s 60-year repayment period for borrowing from the US and Canada for World War II expenses. “We’re building our Armed Forces to stop an all-out war starting and that demands more sophisticated thinking,” ACM Knighton said.

Highlighting the theme of deterrence, ACM Knighton praised NATO as “the greatest military alliance in history” but noted that modern warfare requires new strategies. He mentioned that deterring all-out war in Europe today requires different approaches compared to past conflicts, focusing on the importance of allied readiness to control the air.

ACM Knighton reiterated the Royal Air Force’s commitment to its personnel, acknowledging the challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled individuals. Despite the RAF’s advanced capabilities, he spoke of the need for greater efficiency to justify the nation’s investment.

Addressing industry partners, ACM Knighton called for a departure from a “one size fits all” approach, advocating for “speed, creativity, and productivity” in developing new industrial strategies.

He concluded his speech by highlighting the vital role of global air forces in deterring conflict, stating, “Air and space power is going to play a critical role in deterring our adversaries. That is why we are the first line of defence and the first responders.”