The MPC conference marked a critical milestone in ensuring the largest STEADFAST COBALT 25 exercise achieves its objectives of fostering interoperability, enhancing readiness, and strengthening partnerships. The mission is clear to build a secure, robust and agile network that supports NATO’s readiness for defence in its Area of Responsibility across all regions.
Hosted by MND SE, the MPC brought together 350 experts including soldiers, engineers, CIS technicians and civilian specialists from various branches and allied forces. The focus was on refining the operational requirements and confirming training objectives.
STCO25 participants, 10 December 2024, Sibiu, Romania.
The key highlights of the MPC conference were building confidence, refining processes and ensuring readiness by implementing the latest configurations and standards while creating a federated network capable of responding to any scenario. The planning team discussed the exercise’s testing systems, which are designed to simulate joint operations. Emphasis was placed on realistic and adaptive training to address emerging threats and operational challenges.
Colonel Tuncer Cullu, the Exercise Director for STCO25 stated:
The Main Planning Conference is a testament to the commitment of all partners involved. It reflects our shared vision of achieving a cohesive and effective exercise that prepares NATO for the challenges of tomorrow. Exercise Steadfast Cobalt 25
goes beyond just interoperability testing and federation of our forces. It’s about building trust and ensuring seamless communication between static and deployable units, bridging NATO Command Structure, NATO Force Structure, and National Force Elements. It is essential in today’s interconnected world.
The MPC underscored the importance of secure and efficient communication systems. The conference also addressed opportunities for participants to engage in community outreach and share best practices.