TIDEWATER CHAPTER Chapter • May 04, 2026

Chapter Hosts TWICS '26: Driving Combat AF Innovation

The chapter proudly concluded its flagship event, the Tidewater Integrated Combat Symposium (TWICS) 2026, held May 4-6 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton, Virginia. This year's symposium centered on a critical mission: TWICS 2026 Theme: Highlighting Relevant Technologies That Will Shape the Combat Air Forces To Be a Little More Ready for Tomorrow.

The event saw 906 total registrations and was made possible by the incredible support of our partners, including Title Sponsors World Wide Technology, AV3 and Google Public Sector, alongside the dedication of more than 100 volunteers.

TWICS 2026 delivered unparalleled educational value through eight keynote speakers, 35 breakout sessions and 10 specialized training sessions. The main exhibit hall featured 65 vendors, including 12 government and academia booths. A major operational highlight was Raptor Town, a venue emphasizing industry-warfighter synergy that hosted 29 vendors and drew approximately 250 attendees. This effort was supported by 32 volunteers, including 26 military members and six AFCEA representatives.

Demonstrating a profound commitment to the future workforce, STEM Day engaged 353 participants (308 students and 45 educators). The venue showcased 31 exhibitors supported by 95 volunteers. Joint Base Langley-Eustis provided exceptional support with 27 volunteers representing the 45 IS, 633rd Health Care Ops Squadron, 633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs, 633 Bateman Library, and more.

The event launched with a Golf Tournament at Newport News Golf Club at Deer Run for 108 golfers, with Gen. John Maluda's team claiming victory. Additionally, the virtual Capture the Flag cyber competition challenged top talent, with the 352nd Cyberspace Operations Squadron from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam taking first place.
The chapter would like to thank the attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, students, trainers, volunteers, speakers and staff for making this year's symposium such an incredible success. Your support and commitment continue to make TWICS a premier forum for connection and mission-focused discussion across the defense community.

SAVE THE DATE
As the mission evolves, so does TWICS. Save the date and be part of the conversation next year! May 3-5, 2027, Hampton Roads Convention Center, Hampton, Virginia.

To view TWICS 2026 EVENT PHOTOS, visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/afceatidewaterchapter/albums/72177720333251425

Event Photographs

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Phillips looks on during a Raptor Town Demonstration at the May event.
Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Phillips looks on during a Raptor Town Demonstration at the May event.
Tabb Middle School students participate in First Lego League during the May event.
Tabb Middle School students participate in First Lego League during the May event.
Col. Mike Black, USAF (Ret.), vice president for Defense, AFCEA International, strengthens partnerships across government, industry and academia, helping position AFCEA as a leader in cyber, defense, security and intelligence.
Col. Mike Black, USAF (Ret.), vice president for Defense, AFCEA International, strengthens partnerships across government, industry and academia, helping position AFCEA as a leader in cyber, defense, security and intelligence.