Brigadier General  Heinz Volker Samanns

Brigadier General Heinz Volker Samanns (German Air Force) assumed the position as Head of JAPSSE in July 2024. 

Brigadier General Samanns, an air and missile defender by choice, began his career with the Luftwaffe in 1981. Throughout his professional journey he has worked extensively in operations, procurement, acquisition, and defence planning sectors. His experience includes holding various national and international staff and command positions, participating in missions abroad, working within the politico-military community, and serving as the MoD Branch Head for all Bundeswehr Air and Space armament projects.

During his tenure as the General Manager of the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Management Agency (NAGSMA) within NATO Headquarters, Brigadier General Samanns successfully introduced the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance capability. This capability includes Global Hawk aircraft and the corresponding ground and exploitation equipment, which were deployed at Sigonella Airbase in Sicily, Italy.

In his most recent position as Commander of Ground-Based Forces of the German Air Force, Brigadier General Samanns held a crucial role. His responsibilities encompassed overseeing all Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD), Tactical Air Control System (TACS), and Air Force Protection forces. Additionally, he managed the Luftwaffe training and education facilities, including the Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers Academy. His command ensured the availability of combat-ready soldiers and capabilities for the Luftwaffe's military commitments. Furthermore, as the senior Air and Missile Defence Officer, Brigadier General Samanns was involved in bilateral and international Air and Missile Defence projects, including providing support to Ukraine.