Colonel Gunther Godefridis is a Belgian military leader and strategist with a career spanning over two decades in artillery, operational command, and defence innovation. Born in Leuven in 1974, he began his journey at the Royal Military Academy, graduating in civil engineering with a focus on electro-mechanics. Early in his career, he transformed Belgian artillery procedures at the study and research facility in Brasschaat, leaving a legacy that continues to shape operations today.

Gunther has held international assignments that bridged tactical expertise and strategic vision. He trained and led US Army units in Georgia, pioneered non-lethal weapon programs in Belgium, and served as Aide-de-Camp to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe at SHAPE, working closely with top US generals. He has participated in missions from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Afghanistan, earning recognition with honors such as the US Bronze Star and the European Common Security and Defence Policy Service Medal.

Throughout his career, Gunther has combined operational excellence with a focus on innovation and capability development. He holds advanced degrees in political and military sciences and in business affairs, specializing in strategy and HR management. At the National Armament Directorate, he drove initiatives in military innovation and artificial intelligence, fostering collaboration between European partners and Belgian industry. Today, he leads Development & Readiness at the Belgian Cyber Command, shaping the future of defence in a rapidly evolving digital and strategic landscape.