JFC Brunssum's Role

The enhanced NRF construct agreed at the Wales Summit in 2014 is built on an operational command and control mechanism that includes: a deployable Joint Task Force HQ (JTF HQ) annually provided by and rotated between NATO's two Joint Force Commands – Brunssum and Naples; the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF); an Initial Follow On Forces Group (IFFG); and the Response Forces Pool (RFP).

The JTF HQ was introduced in 2012, aiming to improve the NATO Command Structure by increasing flexibility and deployability.

Participation in the NRF is preceded by a six-month NATO exercise programme in order to integrate and standardise the various national contingents.

Generally, contributing nations carry out a pre-training period of between 6-18 months prior to assuming the role of an NRF high-readiness unit. Once the overall preparation period has been completed, certified forces are held on stand-by to deploy on operations for 12 months.