The evolution of operational environments, the emergence of new threats and the increasing complexity of missions are creating new challenges for Military Health. Addressing these challenges requires knowledge, preparedness, innovation and increasingly close collaboration between Health, Defence and the scientific community.
It is within this context that the 1st International Congress on Military Health Research was created, providing a forum that brings together healthcare professionals, researchers, academics, and national and international experts from a wide range of backgrounds and fields of expertise.
In Military Health, research plays a particularly important role. It enables the development and improvement of techniques and procedures, supports the adoption of evidence-based practices, and contributes to greater effectiveness and safety in operations. At the same time, the generation and sharing of knowledge support the continuous training of healthcare professionals, both in operational settings and in clinical and hospital practice.
The Congress therefore aims to bring research closer to operational reality, encourage the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge, and promote solutions that can contribute to the health and well-being of military personnel, their ability to fulfil their missions, and the health of the wider military community and their families.
This initiative is also part of a broader effort to strengthen the role of research in Military Health. Following the 1st Military Health Research Meetings, held in 2025 and attended in person by over 100 participants, the Congress continues a strategy aimed at strengthening research, innovation and the visibility of the knowledge produced in this field.
The international dimension therefore plays a central role. Closer engagement with different academic and military contexts, including countries from the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), aims to encourage the exchange of experiences, the creation of collaborative networks and the development of new research opportunities.
Three Key Areas for Discussion
To address these challenges, the Congress structures its discussions around three key areas that are essential to the present and future of Military Health.
Military Health in Modern Conflicts
Understanding the evolution of operational environments, emerging risks and the demands they place on Military Health, while exploring the contribution of research, innovation and cooperation to anticipating and responding to these challenges.Force Protection and Operational Readiness
Recognising health as an essential component of operational capability by strengthening prevention, preparedness, human capacity development and the adoption of practices supported by scientific evidence.Research and Innovation in Military Health
Promoting a culture of research and innovation by bringing knowledge production closer to clinical and operational practice and supporting its translation into new approaches, procedures and solutions.
More than a forum for presentations and debate, the Congress aims to build bridges between knowledge, experience and practical application, contributing to a Military Health system that is better prepared, more innovative and better equipped to respond to the challenges of today and the future.