Solbiate Olona, 6 November 2025 – The Commander of the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps – Italy (NRDC-ITA), Lieutenant General Gianluca Carai, today hosted the visit of General Ingo Gerhartz, Commander of the Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFC-BS).
The meeting provided an important opportunity for dialogue and the exchange of operational experiences between two key NATO commands, focusing on the future activities of the Allied Reaction Force (ARF) and its multi-domain capabilities.
During the visit, General Gerhartz – accompanied by Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, Deputy Chief of Staff Support at JFC-BS and a delegation – attended a series of briefings with Lieutenant General Carai and Major General Millar, NRDC-ITA Deputy Commander. The discussions centered on upcoming operational challenges and modernization programs in which the ARF plays a leading role.
The ARF today stands as one of NATO’s main operational and technological platforms. Beyond readiness, it serves as a hub for training and innovation, where new concepts, command systems, and advanced technological solutions are tested and developed.
Experience gained from recent conflicts and the rapid pace of digital transformation are driving a profound evolution. The ARF is pursuing a “lighter, smarter, more protected” approach, testing next-generation digital command systems such as MAVEN, SitaWare, and IMPERIO. These systems enable faster and more integrated management of information in the field.
With its multi-domain capabilities and multinational assets, the ARF Headquarters underscores Italy’s commitment to NATO, contributing to building a collective defense that is more modern, sustainable, and resilient.