Brunssum, the Netherlands, on Tuesday 9^th June, General Jörg Vollmer, Commander Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS), conducted a virtual meeting with Vice Admiral Andrew Keith Blount, Commander NATO’s Maritime Command in Northwood, in the United Kingdom.

Besides a serious discussion regarding the challenges both Commands have faced in relation to COVID19 restrictions, both Flag Officers discussed various topics and stressed their confidence in the ability of their staffs to adapt and adjust in order to complete mission essential tasks for NATO deterrence and defence requirements.

Lessons learned and way ahead after major Naval and Joint exercises were discussed, mainly focussing on aligning of planning efforts and coordination to maximize output and effects.

Both General Vollmer and Vice Admiral Blount stressed the importance of close co-ordination between the two NATO Commands to have clear understanding of the Northern Europe Security Environment and building a clear Command and Control relation in JFC Brunssum’s Area of Operations.

Overall, the engagement was extremely positive and helped to strengthen the two Commanders’ relationship and understanding.