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Excalibur Army Accelerator February 24 – 26

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0 days 60 hours 60 minutes
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We accelerate the journey from idea to deployment in the field.

Excalibur Army Accelerator
2026

The accelerator unites engineers, startups, and industry partners to turn prototypes into proven solutions. In the first year, we provide mentoring, testing facilities, and direct validation with experts.

Practical workshops, open Q&A sessions, technology demonstrations, and networking opportunities await you at the event, saving you time and avoiding dead ends. The program culminates with team presentations and awards for the best project.

Industrial context and real-world deployment, not just pitch decks

Quick feedback from people who will actually use the solution

Community: 10 speakers, 200+ participants, open sharing of case studies

Invitation

Each participant will receive a set of useful materials from us, including contact details, so that they can continue their efforts to find the right partner for their idea in the future.

workshops

Four thematically focused workshops providing a clear overview and practical insights.

speakers

Heavyweight know-how in one place.

participants

A strong network of contacts that lasts even after the event.

Registration for participation and your projects is now open!

NEW MATERIALS

Without new materials, next-gen defence systems won’t meet today’s battlefield realities. We need lighter but tougher armour so vehicles carry more sensors and effectors without losing mobility; materials that handle higher temperatures and stresses for longer-range, more efficient systems; and smart, multifunctional surfaces for stealth, signature management, and survivability. New materials also enable repairability and logistics – from 3D-printed spares to longer-lasting, easier-to-recycle components. Materials aren’t a detail at the end of design; they’re a strategic enabler of capability, resilience, and industrial independence.

TECHNOLOGICAL UNITS

Our innovation agenda prioritises advanced technologies – secure communication and information systems, AR/VR for training and mission support, and modern electronic subsystems that make platforms smarter and more connected. These aren’t add-ons but mission-critical enablers: without robust digital comms and vision systems, forces can’t coordinate or survive; without immersive AR/VR, crews can’t train at required speed; and without cutting-edge electronics, even strong platforms soon become obsolete. Investing in these integrated tech blocks keeps systems relevant, interoperable and effective.

SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE

In defence today, hardware without smart software is just metal, and software without robust hardware is just a demo. Our focus is on tightly integrating both: modular, upgradable platforms on the hardware side, and agile, secure, continuously updated software on the other. This combination lets us turn the same vehicle or system into a living capability that can be reconfigured for new missions, threats, and doctrines over its lifetime – which is exactly what long-term technological and industrial resilience requires.

CYBER SECURITY

In a fully digital defence industry, cybersecurity isn’t an IT issue but a core element of resilience for companies, supply chains and end users. Every line of code, sensor, radio, interface and even production tech must be built from day one to withstand attacks. Cyber-by-design, secure architectures, rigorous testing and continuous monitoring are therefore essential. The goal is not just connecting platforms and factories, but ensuring they operate, share data and update safely under constant cyber pressure. This demands closer engineering–security cooperation, shared standards and continuous training.

NEW MATERIALS
TECHNOLOGICAL UNITS
SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE
CYBER SECURITY

HARMONOGRAM

December

December is the initial phase of the entire program. During this period, we open registration and collect applications for projects that have the ambition to grow. Throughout December, all teams can consult on their ideas, add details, and prepare the necessary documentation for entry into the Accelerator.

January

In January, the final registration of participants and confirmation of their participation in the program takes place. Teams complete the necessary information, finalize administrative requirements, and prepare for the launch. At the same time, we finalize organizational details and communicate the schedule of upcoming activities.

February 20

On February 20, registration closes and the opportunity to join the program ends. All accepted applications are completed at this stage and ready for final assessment. This is followed by a final administrative check and confirmation of team participation.

February 24 - 26

The entire event will take place from February 24 to 26. During these days, professional programs, presentations, networking activities, and accompanying events will be held. Participants will have the opportunity to present their projects, receive feedback, and establish cooperation with experts and program partners.

March 12

On March 12, the final evaluation of the grant program takes place. At this stage, the results of the entire process are processed, the outputs submitted by the participants are evaluated, and the administration of the project is concluded.

December

January

February 20

February 24 - 26

March 12

  • 239 KB pdf

    Detailed schedule for download.pdf

    • Who is participating?

    Speakers

    Stay tuned, we will further announce our excellent keynote speakers from all over the world. Stay connected via our social media and webpages.

    • Pavel Tuček

      Pavel Tuček

      Vice-President Innovation CSG Land Systems

      EXCALIBUR ARMY, Czech Republic

      LinkedIn

      Pavel Tuček

      My governing dynamics is based on working with various entities both from academic and private spheres, leading to identification of game changing technologies, brand new scientific results both from applied and basic research, and set up teams of experts from all over the world. My idea is to establish the regular flow of brand-new ideas, technologies, young eager minds and promising collaborations.

      Short Biography: 
      2004 – MSc. Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic. Mathematics and its applications

      2009 – PhD. Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic. Applied Mathematics, Technical University of Vienna - Institut für Stochastik und Wirtschaftsmathematik

      2015 – Assoc. Prof. Technical University Ostrava, Geoinformatics 

      2024 – MBA Škoda Auto University 15+ years in leading R&D positions in private companies. World-Wide experience – AUSTRIA, GERMANY, USA, MEXICO, CHINA

      2025 - Executive Academy Understanding Defence – a Business Perspective, University of Economics, Prague, Czech Republic

      100+ scientific and applied results, over 600 citations, H-index 13 R&D projects – funded: 20+ (PI, Co-PI, Member) Awards: 8 scientific awards for publications and reserach work Joint collaboration with 20+ Universities World-Wide 
    • Lukas Henkel

      Lukas Henkel

      CEO at OV Tech GmbH

      LinkedIn

      Lukas Henkel

      Lukas Henkel is an accomplished electrical engineer with over ten years of expertise in power electronics, high-speed PCB design, advanced system integration, and multiphysics simulations (EM analysis with Ansys HFSS/SIwave and thermal modeling using Elmer FEM and similar tools).  
      His interdisciplinary strengths span mechanical engineering and materials science, enabling pioneering work on custom System-in-Package (SiP) and System-on-Module (SoM) designs, including fully open-source solutions such as the Pi.MX8 SoM and a Linux-based smartwatch with embedded planar coils.  
      His most recent project is a compact Software-Defined Radio (SDR) module for counter-UAS applications, integrating an AI/ML processing chain for high-bandwidth links, modular upgrades, and real-time fusion with EO/IR systems.  
      As founder of OV Tech GmbH, Lukas leads a team delivering high-performance, repairable hardware solutions for consumer, industrial, and defense electronics clients.
    • prof. Ing. Bohuslav Přikryl, Ph.D.

      prof. Ing. Bohuslav Přikryl, Ph.D.

      Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation at CSG

      LinkedIn

      prof. Ing. Bohuslav Přikryl, Ph.D.

      Professor Bohuslav Přikryl, former Rector of the University of Defence and a brigadier general (ret.), serves as the Vice President for Science and Research at CSG. In his role, he monitors technological developments and seeks to identify which technologies should be used in new products that will influence not only the military, but society as a whole.
    • Raymond Kwong

      Raymond Kwong

      Owner of Epic Optix Inc.

      Raymond Kwong

      Ray Kwong is a serial entrepreneur that has been involved in defense electronics, consumer electronics, and unique optical design. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Ray spent his active duty years as a Surface Warfare Officer assigned to various ships, where he specialized in Electronic Warfare and Intelligence Collection. He has operated in all parts of the world including deployments to the Middle East, South America, Asia, and the European theatres. Ray retired from the US Naval Reserves as an Engineering Duty Officer assigned to the Space and Naval Warfare Center.
      In the private sector, Ray has worked for several defense electronics companies involved in the design and production of radar jammers and surveillance equipment. In addition, he has started companies that provided engineering services to the DoD, produced microwave components for communications and radar systems, and optical systems for Head Up Displays, Head Mounted Displays, and optics for night vision systems. 
    • Radek Zbořil

      Radek Zbořil

      The most cited Czech scientist in the field of chemistry, physics, and materials science.

      Radek Zbořil

      Radek Zbořil is a professor of physical chemistry specializing in nanomaterials research and one of the most cited Czech and international scientists.
      From 2010 to 2020, he was the CEO of the Regional Center for Advanced Technologies and Materials in Olomouc. From 2012 to 2019, he was the director of the national Competence Center of the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic, where he participated in the development of new nanotechnologies and biotechnologies for water and soil purification. For example, he participated in the discovery of the first non-metallic magnets, the control of the electrical properties of molecules using nanomaterials, and the resistance of bacteria to silver nanoparticles.
      In 2018 and 2020, he was included in the list of the world's most cited scientists – the so-called Highly Cited Researchers – by the American company Clarivate Analytics.
      He also works at the VŠB – Technical University of Ostrava, where he leads research in the field of carbon nanomaterial applications. Prof. Zbořil is one of the leading promoters of nanotechnology in Czechia.
    • Radomír Smolka

      Radomír Smolka

      Member of the Board of Directors of Tatra Trucks a.s.

      LinkedIn

      Radomír Smolka

      Radomír Smolka is a member of the board of directors at Tatra Trucks a.s., where he's in charge of research and development, and he's also the director of research and development at Tatra Defence Vehicle a.s.
      He has many years of experience in the research and development of heavy off-road trucks for a wide range of uses – from construction, mining, and forestry to the municipal and agricultural sectors, including military applications. He is well versed in the truck business: he prepares strategic development plans and analyses and manages the entire development process from basic studies through detailed design and testing to series production. A significant part of his practice also includes the development of tailor-made customer solutions and in-depth know-how in the field of wheeled military vehicles and crew protection.
    • Chris Nielsen

      Chris Nielsen

      Owner of Aveo Engineering

      Chris Nielsen

      Chris Nielsen is the founder and owner of Aveo Engineering. He has held senior positions in various technology companies from Apple Computer to Mobil Oil, and any company that intrigued his mind for materials and science. As a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Chris became a Naval Aviator qualified to fly several airframes from the F-14 Tomcat to the C-130 Hercules. 
      Chris founded Superstav, the maker of the Earth Force diggers in Dobříš, that ultimately sold to Bobcat. His success in business did not end there, as he then founded Aveo Engineering, the leader in aerospace lighting; a company that has over 1100 customers in over 120 countries. Aveo lighting can be found on virtually every type of aviation platform from fixed wing, rotary wing, drones, and space vehicles. Aveo has every type of engineering discipline and manufacturing capability and has recently expanded its product line to drone platforms, sensors (multi-spectral cameras, micro radars, lidar, and night vision), and unique composites. 
    • Travis Miller

      Travis Miller

      Former U.S. Navy SEAL

      LinkedIn

      Travis Miller

      Travis Miller served 21 years in the U.S. Navy SEAL Teams, retiring in June 2025 after holding diverse operational and leadership roles. During his career, he worked extensively with NATO SOF Partners across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Southeast Asia to address complex global security challenges, often leveraging emerging technologies.
      In the private sector, Travis is the Chief Operating Officer for Sensr Bio, a health-technology company developing next-generation biometric sensing platforms for readiness, safety, and performance optimization. He also serves as an advisor to defense-focused venture capital firms and early-stage startups, supporting founders building dual-use technologies. His work is dedicated to accelerating the transition of innovative capabilities into the hands of warfighters and strengthening the broader global defense-tech ecosystem.
      Travis holds a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the United States Naval Academy, as well as an MBA and a Master of Global Policy Studies from the University of Texas.
    • Ondřej Petrášek

      Ondřej Petrášek

      Business Innovation Manager

      JIC Innovation Agency

      LinkedIn

      Ondřej Petrášek

      Ondřej Petrášek helps technological and production companies in their growth phase overcome challenges related to expansion and effective growth management. As part of the JIC | Scaleup Leaders services, he connects entrepreneurs with relevant mentors and business partners to achieve sustainable company development. With extensive experience in the business environment, Ondřej focuses on practical solutions and efficiency, enabling companies to realize their growth ambitions, especially in terms of their international expansion.
    • Karel Novotný

      Karel Novotný

      Technical Director, Linaplast s.r.o.

      Karel Novotný

      Technical Director with many years of experience in industry, specializing in tooling and design. He has extensive experience in managing complex technological projects from development through design to serial deployment in production. He focuses on automation, robotic workstations, and advanced large-format 3D printing. He actively develops projects in the field of humanoid and autonomous technology and their practical application in industry. He is dedicated to process digitization and the development of intelligent manufacturing systems. He has long collaborated with secondary schools and universities, combining technical know-how with business development and strategic vision.

    By registering and paying the participation fee, you will be able to attend a three-day event comprising themed lectures on technological developments in defence. You will also have access to workshops led by experts from the CSG group and the chance to expand your professional network to include colleagues and representatives from major industrial companies. You will also gain access to the human and financial resources needed to bring your ideas closer to realisation.

    There will also, of course, be an extensive supporting programme, excellent catering and a social event. Accommodation is guaranteed upon registration and can be booked directly at the event venue, Central Park Flora, using a generated password.

    Take your place

    Registrations

    Czechoslovak Group

    EXCALIBUR ARMY is a member of the industrial and technological group CSG and its division CSG DEFENCE SYSTEMS. CSG is a dynamic group of more than 100 manufacturing, development, and trading companies operating in nine countries, with over 14,000 employees and revenues exceeding 4.5 billion EUR.