From 21 to 23 October 2026, Prague hosted the 13th edition of the international scientific conference MESAS (Modelling and Simulation for Autonomous Systems), held as part of the Future Forces Exhibition & Forum. Organised by the NATO Modelling and Simulation Centre of Excellence (NATO M&S COE) in cooperation with the University of Defence and other partners, the conference welcomed approximately 90 participants from 13 countries.

The programme featured 42 presentations focusing on modelling and simulation, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and their applications in the security and defence environment. The conference provided a platform for exchanging scientific knowledge, sharing practical experience, and fostering international professional cooperation.

Prominent Role of the University of Defence and CSMSS

The Centre for Security and Military Strategic Studies (CSMSS) at the University of Defence played a significant role in the preparation and organisation of the conference. Lieutenant Colonel Jiří Novotný was responsible for coordinating the event in his role as Conference Manager. The Department of Military Robotics at the Faculty of Military Technology, University of Defence, represented by Associate Professor Jan Mazal, also contributed to the academic and organisational arrangements, together with NATO M&S COE, where Lieutenant Colonel David Žůrek coordinated the organisational activities.

CSMSS’s involvement does not end with the conference itself. An important part of its contribution is the subsequent coordination of the publication process and editorial preparation of the conference proceedings, published by Springer in its prestigious Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series. The submitted papers undergo peer review, and preparing them for publication is a demanding process requiring considerable time and academic expertise.

The 13th MESAS conference once again highlighted the importance of international cooperation in the field of modelling and simulation. For the University of Defence and CSMSS, their long-standing involvement in organising the conference provides an opportunity to strengthen professional links with NATO institutions, international universities, and research organisations, while actively contributing to the development of the scientific community in the field of modern defence technologies.