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MONS, Belgium – The NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Italy (NRDC-ITA) has been selected as the interim headquarters for the Alliance’s new Allied Reaction Force (ARF).

The establishment of the ARF was announced during the NATO Summit in Vilnius in July. NRDC-ITA will provide Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) with immediate capability to respond to crisis while providing the opportunity for the development of permanent ARF structures. The Allied Reaction Force will be a new multinational and multi-domain force providing further options to respond swiftly to threats and crises in all directions throughout Alliance territory.

“I am excited and honoured to be able to serve the Alliance in such a crucial role. We will be training hard to provide NATO a ready force,” said NRDC-ITA Commander Lieutenant General Lorenzo D’Addario.

Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Christopher G. Cavoli hosts NRDC-ITA Commander Lieutenant General Lorenzo D’Addario at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) on Monday, Mar. 13, 2023 - NATO Photo by SHAPE Public Affairs Office

Throughout the remainder of 2023 and early 2024, NRDC-ITA will undergo a rigorous series of measures including military exercises, academic studies and staff training culminating with exercise Steadfast Deterrence in May 2024. At the conclusion of the exercise the headquarters will receive validation as the interim ARF headquarters in advance of assuming the role in July 2024.

This new role will also strengthen the Corps’ already established relationships, while allowing it to work with new partners and allies sharing expertise and experience as well as demonstrating the best principles of cohesion and legitimacy. The selection of NRDC-ITA reaffirms Italy’s commitment to the Alliance and the Deterrence and Defence of the Euro-Atlantic area.