idD Portugal Defence participated in the Portugal Air Summit, the largest aeronautics event on the Iberian Peninsula, which took place from October 10th to 12th, promoting the Defence Technological and Industrial Base (DTIB). This event, themed “Flying 4 Change,” brought together experts, companies, and government representatives, establishing itself as a platform for debate and innovation in the sector.
The first day of the event was dedicated to the technological exhibition of companies, where various national and international firms showcased their innovations and solutions in the aerospace sector, creating a conducive environment for networking and the exchange of ideas.
The second day featured presentations and discussions focused on the future of the aviation industry and its connection to the defence sector. The Minister of National Defence, Nuno Melo, inaugurated the intervention program, emphasizing the growing global relevance of the aerospace sector and Portugal’s strategic role in its development. “The strategic sector of the new space is growing and oriented towards cooperation. A new era that brings us challenges and opens doors in the aerospace sector,” he stated. The Minister also highlighted the positive impact of the Portugal Air Summit in invigorating the interior of the country: “The importance and scale of this event prove that an inland municipality can be a hub for attracting companies, investment, and change. The economy has many opportunities in Defence, and the motto of the Air Summit reflects that spirit.”
The Vice-Chief of the Air Force General Staff, Lieutenant General Eurico Justino Craveiro, presented “The Next Strategic Cycle of the Portuguese Air Force,” providing a detailed overview of the evolution and future of national air defence.
Kicking off the panel dedicated to the Defence Technological and Industrial Base, Carlos Félix, CEO of idD, emphasized the need to promote innovation in the sector: “It is essential that we foster the conception of new ideas and create conditions for experimentation and testing of new technologies to cultivate a technological advantage in critical areas.” Carlos Félix also highlighted: “Areas such as cybersecurity, AI, C2, robotics, energy, space, and smart materials are sectors where Portugal is developing significant capabilities, thanks to the collaboration between the BTID, academia, and the Armed Forces.”
The panel “Defence Technological and Industrial Base,” moderated by Vítor Gonçalves, included participants with strong national and international experience, such as João Rebelo (CTI Aerospace), Rui Filipe (INEGI), Nuno da Penha Coutinho (OGMA), and Pedro Petiz (TEKEVER). The discussion focused on topics such as innovation, technological development, and the crucial role of these entities in strengthening the Defence industry.
On the third day, the skies over Ponte de Sôr were filled with various aerial acrobatics, including flybys from aircraft such as TAP and the KC-390, as well as the F-16 from the Air Force, providing a spectacle for participants and the attending public.
Throughout the three days of the event, B2B meetings were also held, facilitated by the B2Match platform, which promoted strategic encounters between companies aimed at creating new partnerships and business opportunities in the sector.
The Portugal Air Summit reaffirmed Portugal’s strategic position in the development of the aerospace and defence industry, with a strong focus on innovation and technological investment, solidifying the country as a relevant player on the international stage.
For more information about the event, visit the official website at Portugal Air Summit 2024