A strategic visit to the 15th Wing and Skeyes
The 4th cycle session of the High Studies for Security and Defence (HSSD), a course of excellence aimed at strategic decision-makers, had an enriching day visiting two major Belgian institutions: the 15th Wing Air and Skeyes.
In the heart of military air transport
The 15th Wing, home of Belgian military air transport, exceptionally opened its doors to our training course. The day began with a presentation by the Wing Commander, followed by a tour of the A400M. This versatile military transport aircraft designed by Airbus replaces the legendary C130. It combines heavy transport capabilities, a long range and the ability to operate on short or unprepared runways. The A400M can transport troops, vehicles or, of course, equipment. The aircraft visited by the HSSD participants (‘auditors’) was specifically configured for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC). Boarded a A400M for more than one hour, they could enjoy an impressive demonstration of airborne parachute drops.
A behind-the-scenes look at air traffic management
The visit continued at Skeyes, the organisation responsible for air traffic management. It ensures the safety and efficiency of flights in Belgian airspace. Its services include air traffic control, meteorology, drone navigation and technical infrastructure management. After an introduction to civil/military cooperation, the auditors explored strategic facilities: the operations room, the air traffic control simulator and the Brussels control tower. This immersion provided a better understanding of the challenges in the field of aviation safety and coordination between the military and civilians.
Practical and concrete learning
This visit is part of the philosophy of the HSSD, which combines theory and field experience. It perfectly illustrates the course’s intent to immerse its members in the heart of the essential mechanisms of defence and security.
