The Air and Space Power Conference 2026 (ASPCon26) took place on March 17, 2026, at the National Convention Centre in Canberra, Australia.
The one-day conference, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) Air and Space Power Centre in coordination with the Joint Capabilities Group, has brought together over 1,000 in-person attendees and more than 850 online participants from around the globe to explore the critical role of air and space power in national defense.
The conference kicked off with an opening address by Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, Chief of Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, followed by a strategic update on the region by Bilahari Kausikan, Distinguished Fellow of the Middle East Institute.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in stimulating discussions and valuable networking opportunities, with a full program of presentations and panel sessions.
One of the highlights of the day was a panel session on “Building Fighting Depth,” moderated by Wing Commander Chris McInnes from the Air and Space Power Center. The panel featured high-ranking officials from the Royal Australian Air Force, including Air Vice-Marshal Steve Pesce, Deputy Chief of Air Force, and Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz, Air Commander Australia.
Another notable session focused on “Space in the Integrated Force,” with a panel moderated by Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, Chief of Space and Cyber, Australian Defence Force. The panel included Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, Australian Defence Force, and Air Marshal Allan Marshall, Air and Space Commander, Royal Air Force, among others.
As the conference unfolded, attendees had the opportunity to learn from and engage with military leaders and experts in the field of air and space power. They discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving strategic environment and the role of air and space power in ensuring national defense.