NATO and collective defence:
Joint statement by the German, Polish, Dutch and Norwegian ministers of defence
Historical archive
Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Defence
Press release | No: 30/2015 | Date: 18/06/2015
We are very pleased to be cooperating closely on the Interim Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) for 2015 - a spearhead and a rapidly deployable force. We are now developing the capability of responding quickly to any emerging threats to NATO – and we are very happy to be here at exercise Noble Jump today to see the progress being made. This excercise contributes to long term adaptation of NATO that was launched in Wales and will continue beyond the Warsaw summit.
Collective Defence is NATO’s cornerstone and the Readiness Action Plan (RAP) adopted at the Wales Summit strengthens collective defence and enhances NATO`s readiness and prepardness. As a result of this reinforced focus, implementing the Enhanced NATO Response Force Concept is a collective priority in NATO. In this context the VJTF plays a crucial role.
We strongly support NATO’s reinforced focus on readiness and preparedness and responsiveness . This is why our three nations agreed on taking the leading role in developing the VJTF as a key element regarding the implemention of the RAP. Moreover, our common contributions to the enhanced NRF will form a strong demonstration of Alliance solidarity and unity.
We are all here today to see how far the concept has evolved. We are certain that our experiences gained from this exercise, as well as future recommendations from NATO Military Authorities of this excercise will enhance NATO`s concepts and ensure that the VJTF will be ready in 2016.
We are looking forward to further developing and refining the VJTF as the test phase is progressing during this year.
We also look forward to the next series of test-bed activities to come – they will ensure that the end result will be a fast, flexible and strong force which will improve the capabilities of the NRF.
We will follow the test-bed activities’ progress closely and we are happy to meet here today to witness the progress and meet our highly professional and motivated troops. The interim force will continue to participate in training events during the coming months, and we will continue to develop and enhance its capability.
NATO Member States are united and resolute in their strong commitment to collective defence to ensure security and assurance to all Allies. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to make sure the Alliance remains strong and able to respond swiftly to new security challenges from any direction.