On 27 March 2025, a European Air Transport Command (EATC) delegation led by Major General Franck Mollard attended the Distinguished Visitors (DV) Day of Exercise VOLCANEX in Wildflecken, Germany. EATC actively supports this multinational force protection exercise through its Intelligence Branch, providing experienced intelligence mentors who play a pivotal role in shaping the exercise’s success. As core members of the planning team, these experts offer invaluable support, as recognized by the exercise leadership.
During the visit, participants demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in a well-structured and dynamic training environment. This high level of execution is underpinned by two key contributors: the Bundeswehr Army Warfighting Simulation Centre, which provides cutting-edge resources to enhance the realism of the exercise, and the European Air Group (EAG), whose expertise in multinational force protection training ensures a high-quality learning experience for all involved.
As a tactical battle simulation, VOLCANEX plays a critical role in preparing young officers and non-commissioned officers for real-world operational challenges. The exercise offers a safe but realistic environment where participants can test crisis responses, learn from failures, and develop the confidence to make decisive choices under pressure—key elements of agile combat employment. Beyond individual training, VOLCANEX also fosters deeper cooperation between participating nations and multinational military organizations, strengthening interoperability and mutual understanding.
In this context, Major General Mollard met with Brigadier General Patrick Goossens, Deputy Director of the EAG, to explore further synergies between EAG and EATC. Discussions focused, among others, on integrating virtual exercises like VOLCANEX with live training programs such as European Tactical Airlift Programme (ETAP) and the European Air Refuelling Training (EART). A combined approach would offer a more comprehensive and effective training framework, enhancing multinational readiness.
EATC commends the EAG and the Bundeswehr for their outstanding efforts in delivering a highly valuable and well-executed exercise. Such collaborations are vital in strengthening the operational capabilities of our multinational forces and reinforcing Europe’s collective security.