Introduction
Conference Objectives
The NDIA C4ISR Division will convene the 7th Annual Disruptive Technology Conference as a forum of discussion and opportunity for government and industry senior technologists, product engineers and strategists to identify and promote the development of technology that will "Create Capability Surprise for Irregular Warfare."
Science and Technology (S&T) advancements are key enablers when it comes to the creation of capability surprise. New technology can support the achievements of new capabilities to fill gaps identificied through intelligence and military operations. Although it is essential to maintain awareness of emerging threats, it is also prudent to increase the focus on game changing capabilities to meet the challenges associated with irregular warfare. Irregular warfare includes the challenges of defeating insurgents, combating terrorism, and stability operations. S&T advancements provide opportunities to create capability surprise.
The 2010 QDR acknowledges the complex security landscape stemming from current conflicts, enduring trends, and a challenging operational landscape. The repot emphasizes the importance of flexibility of the force and investment in key enablers. The QDR focuses its assessment on improving capabilities for a number of key mission areas; one being to "Succeed in Counterinsurgency, Stability, and Counterterrorism Operations." The right S&T investments will be key enablers for the capabilities required to be successful in this key mission area.
Conference Goal
To identify technologies that will enable the U.S. and its Allies to fill gaps in capabilities required for the successful conduct of irregular warfare and defeat asymmetric threats.