BRUNSSUM, The Netherlands – Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS) had the pleasure of hosting students and staff from Belgium’s Royal Military Academy and the Netherlands Defence Academy on the 23rd of January, 2025.
The Advanced Command and Staff Course is designed to equip selected officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in complex joint and multinational operational environments
This visit was an integral part of an Advanced Command and Staff Course curriculum, offered to students from both academies as a single combined course.
The group was warmly welcomed by Brigadier General Frederic Givron, JFCBS Assistant Chief of Staff, Plans, and Senior National Representative of Belgium, alongside Colonel Bianca Jansen, JFCBS Legal Advisor and Dutch Senior National Representative. Their presence underscored the close collaboration between NATO members in preparing future leaders for operational roles.
The primary objective of the visit was to familiarise the students with the roles, responsibilities, processes, and challenges faced by an operational-level NATO military headquarters. Attendees participated in comprehensive lectures that highlighted the key functional areas involved in the operational planning process. Following the lectures, students engaged in interactive discussions fostering a practical understanding of the complexities involved with military planning issues and strategies.
The Advanced Command and Staff Course is designed to equip selected officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in complex joint and multinational operational environments. As part of the program, participants visit a variety of NATO headquarters and commands across Europe, including JFC Brunssum. These visits provide students with hands-on exposure to the frameworks and processes they may encounter in their future roles.