On 9 June 2026, Commander EATC, Major General Franck Mollard, visited the EATC Volkel Deployment, conducted from Volkel Air Base as part of the Command’s operational deployment activities. The visit was coordinated by Detachment Commander Major Noel Di Noia and included a meeting with the Deputy Commander of Volkel Air Base, Colonel Michel “Tim” van der Steeg.
The deployment, held from 8 to 12 June, provided an opportunity to demonstrate and assess EATC’s deployment capability by relocating key operational functions to Volkel. Activities included planning, tasking, real-time mission management, aeromedical evacuation coordination, and intelligence support, showcasing EATC’s ability to respond rapidly to emerging crises and security challenges.
As the second test of EATC’s deployment capability, the activity confirmed its continued relevance within today’s European strategic environment. Conducted in coordination with NATO Exercise Ramstein Flag 2026, the deployment also validated EATC’s ability to task missions supporting NATO requirements through coordination with the Combined Air Operations Centre Bodø via an EATC liaison officer.
EATC’s General Support and CIS teams, with valuable assistance from the Joint Informatievoorziening Commando (JIVC) and the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force (RNASF), ensured uninterrupted operations throughout the deployment. Infrastructure and connectivity were further tested through video- and teleconference activities.
The successful deployment demonstrated the agility and resilience of EATC processes, enabling the majority of European Air Mobility Wings and Squadrons to continue their activities without disruption. The visit concluded with an informal lunch between Commander EATC and members of the deployment team, providing an opportunity for open exchange and discussion.