General Onno Eichelsheim, the Chief of Defence of the Netherlands, visited Allied Command Transformation, today. This headquarters is one of two strategic commands within NATO and is responsible for developing and shaping the Alliance’s future military capabilities. He was welcomed by both the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, General Philippe Lavigne, and his Deputy, General Chris Badia.
During his visit, General Eichelsheim received in-depth briefings on several key areas of focus for Allied Command Transformation:
- Multi-Domain Operations: This concept recognizes that modern warfare is no longer confined to a single domain, such as land, maritime, or air. Instead, it involves a complex interplay of all domains, as well as cyberspace and outer space. Allied Command Transformation is working to develop strategies and capabilities to effectively operate in this multi-dimensional environment. Through this Command’s development of the Multi-Domain Operations Concept, actions are synchronized with non-military activities and enable the Alliance to create desired outcomes at the right time and place. This will enable NATO’s Military Instrument of Power to prepare, plan, orchestrate and execute coordinated activities in collaboration with other stakeholders and actors associated with the Alliance. In doing so, this concept will deliver tailored options that build an advantage in shaping, contesting and fighting and presents dilemmas that decisively influence the attitudes and behaviours of adversaries.
- NATO Defence Planning Process: This is the framework through which NATO member states plan their military forces and capabilities. It ensures that the Alliance has the necessary resources to meet its collective security commitments. Allied Command Transformation contributes to all aspects of the NATO Defence Planning Process by leveraging its expertise in Warfare Development to provide critical insights and develop key products at various stages of the Process. Allied Command Transformation, and Allied Command Operations, are deeply immersed in efforts to translate the guidance from the Allies into the Capability Requirements that will enable the Alliance to achieve its revised Level of Ambition.
- Future Foresight Study: This ongoing study aims to anticipate future security challenges and trends. By looking ahead, Allied Command Transformation can identify emerging threats and develop strategies to counter them. This helps to ensure that NATO remains relevant and effective in a rapidly changing security environment. Some of the areas that the Command is currently focusing on include climate change and technological disruption.
- Digital Transformation: The increasing importance of technology in modern warfare has led to a focus on digital transformation within NATO. Allied Command Transformation is working to modernize the Alliance’s military capabilities through the use of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, space and next generation communication networks. The Alliance is developing specific plans for each of these key technology areas. These strategies are laying the groundwork for NATO to accelerate responsible innovation and the rapid adoption of modern technologies, in order to improve decision-making and steer transatlantic innovation for defence and security in accordance with Allied values, norms and international law.
Why is it important for Chiefs of Defence to visit Allied Command Transformation?
Visits by senior national military leaders like Chiefs of Defence are essential for strengthening the relationship between NATO and its member states. By visiting Allied Command Transformation, these leaders gain a deeper understanding of the Alliance’s strategic priorities and the challenges it faces. This knowledge can help them to ensure that their national military forces are aligned with NATO’s goals and contribute effectively to collective security.
As the highest ranking military officer in The Netherlands, General Onno Eichelsheim is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Dutch armed forces. He oversees the planning and execution of military operations, as well as the development of military capabilities. General Eichelsheim’s visit to Allied Command Transformation underscores the Netherlands’ commitment to NATO and its role in promoting European security.
Such visits provide an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration between NATO and its member states. Chiefs of Defence can share their perspectives and concerns, and Allied Command Transformation can provide guidance and support. This helps to build trust and cooperation among the Alliance’s members.
