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ACI to Host 4th Annual Unmanned Systems West Conference in San Diego

Discover how next-gen unmanned systems are transforming defense at ACI’s premier West Coast forum featuring top military leaders and cutting-edge UxS insights By Joseph Macey / 11 Aug 2025

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The American Conference Institute (ACI) will host its 4th Annual Unmanned Systems West Forum this fall in San Diego, September 9-10, 2025, offering an essential platform to explore the future of uncrewed systems (UxS) in defense operations.

As the premier West Coast event dedicated to unmanned technologies, the forum will bring together top military leaders, defense innovators, and policymakers to discuss cutting-edge advancements shaping national security.

Attendees will gain strategic insight into how UxS is enhancing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, improving real-time situational awareness, and enabling rapid, informed decision-making in complex operational environments.

The conference will feature perspectives from an esteemed speaker faculty, including:

  • Vice Admiral Robert M. Gaucher: Vice Admiral Robert M. Gaucher Commander, Naval Submarine Forces, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, Commander, Allied Submarine Command, U.S. Navy.
  • Rear Admiral Bryon “BT” Smith: Reserve Vice Commander, U.S. SECOND Fleet.
  • Dr. Jeremy S. Werner: Chief Scientist to Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E), Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Strategic Initiatives, Policy, and Emerging Technologies (SIPET), Department of Defense.
  • Captain Charles (Newt) McKissick: Senior Director, Maritime Portfolio Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Department of Defense.
  • Dr. Marina Theodotou: Innovation & Organizational Change Expert Defense Acquisition University, Department of Defense.
  • Dr. Christopher P. Heagney: Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Fleet/Force Advisor US Naval Forces Southern Command & US Navy 4th Fleet (USNAVSO/FOURTHFLT)

The forum also presents unique networking opportunities and expert-led discussions on tactical innovation, maritime autonomy, operational testing, and emerging defense technologies.

Don’t miss this high-impact event where the next generation of unmanned systems takes center stage in shaping tomorrow’s military advantage.

Use promo code D10-999-DA26 at registration to save an additional 10%. Full information about the event can be found here.

Posted by Joseph Macey Joseph Macey is a Content Specialist at Defense Advancement, where he has focused on emerging defense technologies since joining in 2022. His expertise spans tactical UAS, rugged computing, and Satellite Communication Systems. After graduating in Journalism from Falmouth University, Joseph began his career in 2019 as a local reporter. His journalism background enhances both his reporting and interview skills, enabling him to provide insightful, authoritative analysis of the latest trends shaping the defense industry. Connect
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