Digital Transformation, Emerging Technologies and Defense are reshaping security models, decision-making processes and the protection of critical infrastructures. Therefore, on March 3, the National Defence Institute (IDN) will host a seminar on this topic in Porto, in partnership with Porto Business School.
In addition, this initiative is part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the IDN and the activities of the National Defence Course 2025/26, reinforcing its institutional and strategic relevance.
Digital Transformation, Emerging Technologies and Defence in today’s geopolitical context
Today’s geopolitical environment is marked by uncertainty and growing complexity. Therefore, digital transformation has become a critical factor in security and defence.
Moreover, technologies such as artificial intelligence, cyber defense, autonomous systems and big data play a central role in decision-making processes and in protecting information, systems and people.
However, these advances also raise significant challenges. On the other hand, issues related to digital sovereignty, technological governance and ethical and legal frameworks require an integrated and informed approach.
Seminar objectives
The seminar aims to promote reflection, debate and knowledge sharing on Digital Transformation, Emerging Technologies and Defense.
Thus, the event seeks to:
- Analyse key challenges and opportunities of digital transformation
- Share scientific insights and applied experiences
- Foster an integrated perspective between research, innovation and implementation
In addition, the seminar encourages interdisciplinary dialogue between academia, industry and public decision-makers.
Seminar program
The program combines institutional perspectives, strategic reflection and applied knowledge.
Agenda
14:00 | Check-in
14:30 | Opening Session
Prof. Isabel Ferreira Nunes, Director of the National Defence Institute
Prof. Patricia Teixeira Lopes, Vice-Dean at Porto Business School
14:40 | Institutional Address
Address by His Excellency the Secretary of State for Defence Policy, Dr. Nuno Pinheiro Torres
1
Panel 1 | Research and Knowledge in Digital Transformation
14:50
This panel explores technological trends and scientific contributions to secure digital transformation, as well as the development of solutions for security and defence.
Speakers:
- Professor Ricardo Machado, University of Minho and CCG/ZGDV Institute
- Professor Pedro Diniz, University of Porto
- Professor André Baptista, University of Porto
Moderator:
Colonel José Teixeira Leite, Deputy Director of the National Defence Course
16:15 | Break
Panel 2 | Application and Innovation in Digital Transformation
16:30
On the other hand, this panel focuses on practical implementation, presenting real cases, market solutions and strategies for deploying dual-use technologies that support security and defence capabilities.
Speakers:
- Luís Teixeira, Business Development, EMPORDEF – Tecnologias de Informação (ETI)
- João Queirós, Director of Inovação, Controlar – Innovating Industry
- Dário Pedro, CEO, Beyond Vision
Moderator:
Lieutenant Colonel Jorge Domingos Rodrigues, Associate Researcher, National Defence Institute
18:00 | Break
18:15 | Keynote Speech
Dr. Bernardo Correia, Secretary of State for Digitalisation
Moderator:
Colonel João Assis Barbas, Director of the National Defence Course
19:15 | Closing Session
Who should attend
This event is designed for professionals, researchers, policy-makers, students and all those interested in technology, innovation, security and defense.
Thus, the seminar provides a privileged space for learning, networking and cooperation.
Venue
The seminar will take place at Porto Business School, a leading executive education institution with a strong focus on strategic thinking and leadership development.
In addition, Porto Business School offers executive education programs in geopolitical risk and cybersecurity, strengthening leaders’ and decision-makers’ ability to operate in highly complex and uncertain environments.
Registration
Participation in the seminar is subject to prior registration.
Join this high-level event, featuring key figures in national defence and digitalisation.