Eindhoven, 28 February 2025 – The European Air Transport Command (EATC) proudly welcomed a delegation from the Belgian Royal Military Academy (RMA) as part of their Candidate Staff Officers Course (CSOC). This visit, integral to the formation of future Belgian Air Force senior officers, aimed to enhance their understanding of multinational air mobility cooperation and the vital role of EATC in Command & Control (C2) processes.
The delegation consisted of Air Force officers at the OF-2/3 level currently undergoing their national staff course at the Belgian Defence College. Their visit to EATC was a key component of a broader educational tour covering various international units where Belgian Defence plays an active role, including NSPA, NAEW & CF, CAOC Uedem, and the MMU.
The visit commenced with a warm welcome from the Commander of EATC, Major General Franck Mollard, who provided insights into the organization’s foundation, emphasizing the initiative taken by the seven Air Chiefs in establishing EATC. He elaborated on the Pooling & Sharing principle, a cornerstone of multinational cooperation, and highlighted EATC’s pivotal role in managing and optimizing air mobility resources for its Participating Nations, including Belgium.
Following this introduction, the Belgian Senior National Representative (SNR), Colonel Patrik De Groot, delivered a comprehensive EATC briefing, focusing on the Belgian perspective within the multinational framework. This session provided the students with a deeper understanding of Belgium’s engagement in EATC operations and its benefits to the Belgian Defence C2 process.
The visit continued with interactive sessions at the Operational Division (OPSD) and the Functional Division (FUND), where the officers were divided into three groups for a more detailed exploration of EATC’s mission, processes, ongoing projects, and training opportunities. These sessions offered valuable insights into how EATC enhances operational effectiveness and interoperability within multinational air mobility.
As part of their broader academic curriculum, the visiting officers are being prepared for future command and staff roles, where they will navigate the complexities of joint operations, international defence relations, and the evolving challenges of the Belgian Air & Space Force. Their engagement with EATC will reinforce their understanding of multinational collaboration, a key element of modern military air mobility operations.
EATC remains committed to fostering strong relationships with national and international defence institutions, and this visit further strengthens the ties between the Belgian Defence College and EATC. By sharing knowledge and best practices, both institutions contribute to the continuous improvement of multinational air mobility capabilities, ensuring readiness for future operational challenges.