NATO Military Committee Tours ACT at JWC in Stavanger

The visit focused on the Alliance's short-term transformation priorities, from capability development to AI's military applications.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The NATO Military Committee visited the Joint Warfare Center (JWC) in Stavanger, Norway, on March 4-6, 2026, to gain insights into Allied Command Transformation's (ACT) work in driving the Alliance's adaptation and innovation. The committee explored topics ranging from capability development and delivery to the application of AI in military decision-making.

Why it matters

The visit underscores the crucial role the JWC plays in contributing to NATO's technological edge and preparing the Alliance for the evolving demands of modern warfare. As global challenges grow in scope and complexity, the ability to train effectively, enhance interoperability, and leverage cutting-edge technologies like AI has become paramount for the Alliance.

The details

During the visit, the NATO Military Committee received briefings from Admiral Pierre Vandier, the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT), and Major General Ruprecht von Butler, the Commander of the JWC. The committee gained concrete insights into the implementation of NATO's transformation priorities, including the JWC's efforts in digitalizing the exercise environment, enhancing warfare development through the Audacious Training initiative, and aligning its mission support with the Alliance's evolving needs.

  • The NATO Military Committee visited the JWC in Stavanger, Norway, on March 4-6, 2026.

The players

Admiral Pierre Vandier

The Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT).

Major General Ruprecht von Butler

The Commander of the NATO Joint Warfare Center (JWC) in Stavanger, Norway.

Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone

The Chair of the NATO Military Committee.

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What they’re saying

“There is no doubt that JWC here in Stavanger plays a central role in contributing to Alliance's adaptation and innovation, in the face of modern warfare's evolving demands. With challenges growing in scope and complexity, our mission here - to push forward NATO's technological edge - has never been more crucial.”

— Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chair of the NATO Military Committee (Mirage News)

“short of war, is all we have to make us better.”

— Admiral Pierre Vandier, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) (Mirage News)

What’s next

The visit by the NATO Military Committee fostered a shared understanding regarding future capability priorities and highlighted areas where coordinated Allied efforts, along with targeted investments, can deliver maximum operational impact.

The takeaway

The NATO Military Committee's visit to the Joint Warfare Center in Stavanger underscores the crucial role the center plays in driving the Alliance's technological transformation and preparing it for the evolving demands of modern warfare. As global challenges grow in scope and complexity, the ability to effectively train, enhance interoperability, and leverage cutting-edge technologies like AI has become paramount for NATO's readiness and adaptation.