Brunssum, The Netherlands – BRILLIANT BONUS 24, the most significant staff exercise for Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS) in the latter half of 2024, concluded on 31st October, 2024.
Our newcomers did an outstanding job adapting to their new environment by learning to work alongside their colleagues within a single multicultural team to conduct complex multi-domain operations together in a variety of high-pressure situations
The rigorous 10-day training event marked a pivotal moment in enhancing the operational capabilities of NATO forces and ensuring their readiness to respond to any emerging threats.
BRILLIANT BONUS 24 was designed to extensively test NATO's procedures, strengthen operational readiness, and challenge its participants in scenarios they may encounter in a real-life crisis. JFCBS staff members encountered a relentless stream of tasks and evolving challenges, compelling them to adapt dynamically and efficiently in real time.
Perhaps most importantly, the exercise served as a significant opportunity for newcomers to immerse themselves in NATO’s established battle rhythm, the mechanics of Boards and Working Groups as well as procedures and processes, ensuring continuity throughout the command following the 2024 summer personnel rotation. This training event was specifically structured to assess and enhance the ability of new JFCBS team members, and help them acclimate swiftly to the demanding standards set by JFCBS Headquarters.
“An intense training environment like Brilliant Bonus fosters individual resilience, but also enhances collective problem solving, which is absolutely essential for NATO operations at all levels,” said General Guglielmo Luigi Miglietta, JFCBS Commander. “Every summer, a third of our team leaves the headquarters, to be replaced by new faces. Our newcomers did an outstanding job adapting to their new environment by learning to work alongside their colleagues within a single multicultural team to conduct complex multi-domain operations together in a variety of high-pressure situations.”
As a computer-based exercise, BRILLIANT BONUS 24 focused on training decision-making processes and strategic planning. Ultimately, the exercise underscored JFCBS's unwavering commitment to deterring threats and safeguarding NATO territory in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape. The lessons learned from Brilliant Bonus will undoubtedly contribute to the continuous improvement of JFCBS's operational effectiveness, ensuring that the Alliance remains prepared to address any challenges that lie ahead.