BUCHAREST - Exercise Steadfast Cobalt 16 (SC16), designed to assess and document the level of communication and information system capabilities for the NATO Response Force, wrapped up on June 3, 2016 in Romania.

Prior to heading back to their units all personnel participating in the exercise were involved in a short ceremony on the grounds of the 48th Communications and Information Centre.

Congratulating the personnel on their outstanding achievements, Major General Walter Huhn, Commander NATO Communication and Information Systems Group said, "The visit of the President of Romania, and our military distinguished visitors to the exercise reflects the recognition and importance of our role within the NATO Command and Force Structure and operational value.  You have very visibly demonstrated our capability, our responsiveness, and your technical professionalism to all."

The provision of all forms of effective military communication is essential for headquarters elements to function. With Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) elements deployable within days, network provision and sustainability are critical force enablers. 

"I have already received excellent feedback from many areas, highlighting well on your preparation, your conduct throughout the exercise and indeed your ability to simply do the job. I am hugely impressed by you all, "said Major General Huhn.

"I would also like to thank our superb hosts the Romanian authorities for looking after us so well in this beautiful city, and adding to the success. This location has been an ideal site for our needs," he added.

Exercise Steadfast Cobalt 17 planning is already underway and is scheduled to take place in Lithuania next year.