The Sea-Air-Space Conference and Exposition 2024, the largest maritime exposition in the United States, is set to bring together leaders from the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and other key figures in the defense industry. Hosted by the Navy League of the United States, this annual event will take place from April 8 to April 10 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.
A highlight of the conference will be the NAVAIR Leadership Panel, scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, at 10 a.m. The panel includes NAVAIR Commander Vice Adm. Carl Chebi, Rear Adm. John Dougherty of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), Rear Adm. Joseph Hornbuckle, Commander of Fleet Readiness Centers, and Dan Carreño, executive director of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD). The discussion aims to shed light on NAVAIR’s mission priorities and how the organization is ensuring the Navy and Marine Corps have access to the most advanced, reliable, and safe capabilities.
The exposition will kick off on Monday, April 8, at 9:30 a.m., with NAVAIR’s Office of Small Business Programs introducing small businesses to resources available for maximizing contracting opportunities with the Department of Navy. The agenda also features Rear Adm. Stephen Tedford, Program Executive Officer for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons, discussing advancements in weapons capacity and support for AI and unmanned technologies.
Furthermore, Theodore Gronda, head of NAVAIR’s Additive Manufacturing Team, will discuss how additive manufacturing is boosting readiness and the creation of the Naval Aviation School for Additive Manufacturing. This initiative is designed to equip military maintainers and artisans with the necessary skills to produce additive manufactured products for the fleet.
Another session of note is led by NAWCAD Executive Director Steve Cricchi and Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) Director Blaine Summers, detailing how NAWCAD’s JSE is transforming defense test and training. The digital range advances service interoperability and allows for the testing of next-generation aircraft and tactical group scenarios too hazardous for open-air ranges.
The exposition will conclude with an “Ask Us Anything” panel hosted by the NAVAIR Office of Small Business Programs, offering attendees the chance to have their questions addressed by experts.
Founded in 1965, the Sea-Air-Space Exposition stands as an integral part of the Navy League’s mission to educate on maritime policy and support sea services. It fosters collaboration between the U.S. defense industrial base, private sector companies, and military decision-makers, emphasizing innovation, education, and professional development.
