Defence Academy of UK hosted visit by BALDEFCOL delegation

The Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) Commandant Major General Vitalijus Vaikšnoras, accompanied by his Military Assistant CPT Vilius Zagurskis, conducted 3-day visit to the Defence Academy of UK on 4-6 NOV 2013. The main aim of the visit was to get familiarized with the structure and capabilities of Academy, UK approach to Professional Military Education and to enhance ongoing cooperation between two institutions.

The visit started in Shrivenham there the HQ of the Defence Academy and subordinate Joint Services Command and Staff College and College of Management and Technology are located. The Commandant had a possibility to meet the leadership of respective organizations.

Meeting with Mr Peter Watkins CBE, Director General of Academy

The Director General of Academy Peter Watkins CBE and the Commandant introduced each over to their respective organizations; possible areas of cooperation were covered as well. It was agreed to intensify cooperation and relations between two institutions in terms of faculty exchange, cohosting ESDC modules, participation in Visiting fellows program and other field. 

Later the delegation visited the College of Management and Technology where got excellent briefing on activities performed by the Center for Defence Leadership and Management. Briefings were followed by tour in the Centre for Defence Acquisition and Technology.

In the Centre for Defence Acquisition and Technology

In the afternoon Commandant met Rear Admiral James Morse, the Commandant of the Joint Services Command and Staff College. It was interesting for the visitors to see how operational level training is organized in the UK. During the meeting two Commandants exchanged relevant information about respective colleges, deeper discussed matters such as Electives, organization of Staff rides, alumni affairs as well as quality assurance of the education process and performance audit. 

Meeting with RADM J. Morse, Commandant of the Joint Services Command and Staff College

Next day the Commandant visited the Royal College of Defence Studies in London. The College lead by LTG (R) Sir David Bill KCB focuses on the strategic level were prepares future leaders from public and private sectors of UK and abroad for senior responsibility in their respective organizations. 

Meeting with LTG (R) Sir David Bill KCB, Commandant of the Royal College of Defence Studies

Besides the briefing Major General Vitalijus Vaikšnoras had an excellent opportunity to participate in one of the lectures and followed discussions and to feel the special atmosphere of the Royal College of Defence Studies.

Lecture at the Royal College of Defence Studies