10 – Defence Staff – 165 Years of History.
Adaptation, transformation and strategic vision (1859-2024) (panel)
These discussions will highlight the enduring legacy of the Romanian Defence Staff since its founding, showcasing key historical milestones and achievements. Participants will focus on how the organization has evolved in response to national and global security needs, transitioning from traditional defense methods to embrace advanced technologies, modern military doctrines, and updated organizational structures. Through these reflections, the round table will offer insights into how Romania’s military strategies have developed to meet the demands of various historical periods, from its early foundations to the challenges of the contemporary security landscape.
Objectives
The key objectives of the round table are as follows:
- Reflecting on Historical Milestones: Provide an overview of the Defence Staff’s most significant achievements and challenges over the past 165 years. Topics for discussion will include notable military figures who shaped the evolution of the Defense Staff, the role and the place of the Great General Staff and the Great General Headquarters during the 1941 campaign, the strategic importance of the Danube since the end of the Second World War, the activities of the Great General Staff during the difficult period of the Soviet occupation. This will help participants understand the foundation of Romania’s current military posture.
- Examining Adaptation and Transformation: Discuss how the Defence Staff has adapted to shifting geopolitical landscapes, evolving from conventional warfare to address modern threats such as cyber warfare and hybrid conflicts. By tracing its evolution, the round table will highlight lessons learned and the strategies that have enabled continuous growth and adaptation.
- Celebrating Military Heritage: Honor the Defence Staff’s contributions to Romanian history and its essential role in protecting national sovereignty, reinforcing its importance to Romania’s national identity and collective memory.
The Round Table: Defence Staff – 165 Years of History is a unique opportunity to reflect on the past, assess the present, and envision the future of Romania’s military leadership, while underscoring its strategic role in ensuring national and regional security.
