Press Release (2006)128 23 Oct. 2006

Exhibition on Special Operations Forces (NATO HQ, 25 – 26 October 2006)   Background Conference of National Armaments Directors The sixth biannual Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD) exhibition will be held at NATO Headquarters on the 25 and 26 October 2006, in parallel with the fall 2006 CNAD meeting. The exhibition, called “Special Operations Forces – A Strategic Enabler”, will focus on emerging technologies and new equipment that can be used for the support of Special Operations Forces (SOF). With their specialized skills, versatility and effectiveness in contemporary conflicts, SOF have in recent times gained prominence. Operating as small, readily deployable units that capitalize on speed and surprise, they can operate independently or in support of conventional forces. Their unique skills, training and scalable capabilities provide decision-makers with the ability to tailor responses accordingly - a critical capability, given the dynamics of today’s international security environment. For this reason, the CNAD exhibition “Special Operations Forces” seeks to encourage close cooperation among Allied industries, research and technology institutions and military authorities. It provides companies the possibility to present their most innovative concepts and designs for SOF, and serves as a forum to exchange ideas and know-how between companies, the National Armaments Directors as well as NATO staff and national delegations. The exposition will take place at NATO Headquarters in the Press Area. It can be visited by national officials and accredited journalists on 25 October from 09:00 to 18:00 and on 26 October 2006 from 09:00 to 14:30. For further details please contact the CNAD Exhibition team: cnad-exhibition@hq.nato.int

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