This new command, part of Allied Command Operations, is responsible for the North Atlantic and the High North. Its mission is to protect the Strategic Lines of Communication across all domains, and enable the reinforcement of Europe.
The survival of NATO and the success or failure in combat in a future war in Europe, will largely depend on the success or failure of this command
"The security environment continues to grow more challenging and complex – particularly in the Atlantic," said Vice Admiral Andrew Lewis, JFC Norfolk's commander. "JFC Norfolk demonstrates NATO's dedication to security and stability in the region and sends a strong message of reassurance to both North Americans and Europeans, while serving as a powerful signal to deter any potential adversary."
NATO's newest operational headquarters, Joint Force Command Norfolk, has reached Full Operational Capability and marked the occasion with a ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia on Thursday, July 15, 2021 - NATO Photo by JFC Norfolk Public Affairs Office
"The survival of NATO and the success or failure in combat in a future war in Europe, will largely depend on the success or failure of this command," said General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
In May 2021, JFC Norfolk led phase one of Exercise Steadfast Defender, NATO's flagship exercise for 2021, focused on the protection of the transatlantic link.
JFC Norfolk is one of three regionally focused joint, operational-level commands reporting directly to Supreme Allied Commander Europe and the only operational NATO command based in North America.