Steadfast Dagger 25 is an exercise designed to strengthen the operational capabilities of participating units and to train the readiness of ARF Component Commands which will assume roles and responsibilities starting from 1st July 2026. The exercise will take place mainly at the NATO Joint Warfare Centre (JWC) simulation facility in Stavanger (NOR), with part of the NRDC-ITA Command operating on-site at JWC and another part interconnected from the Solbiate Olona (ITA) base. It simulates defense missions, targeted operations, and integrated resource management in dynamic scenarios, while incorporating advanced communication systems and innovative solutions developed within the NATO framework.
The exercise is structured in three main phases: an initial planning phase, containing the development of plans and orders, training objectives and general rules to accomplish the mission; the execution of simulated injections, which allows for testing operational efficiency, unit coordination and effective use of technological innovations; and a final debriefing, focused on analyzing results, identifying strengths and areas for improvement and sharing lessons learned.
Exercise Steadfast Dagger 2025 represents the right venue to implement and enhance procedures and functions within the Cyber, CBRN and Space Domains, giving all actors involved the chance to develop capabilities and proficiency in a complex and fast changing Multi-Domain environment.
The exercise highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach in the management of modern missions, integrating political, economic, social, security, rule of law and humanitarian aspects strictly along with military aspects and capabilities.
NRDC-ITA can rely on the standardized procedures built through 20 years of experience in the field achieving another important step forward in confirming one more time its highest capabilities as Joint Task Force Headquarters in its NATO Allied Reaction Force role.