Day one of Field Study 1 was devoted to the NDC’s host country, Italy. Course Members were hosted by lecturers who covered various topics in virtual mode, and discussed, most notably, the Italian role in NATO’s defense posture and Italy’s perspective of international security and deterrence.
The morning session commenced with opening remarks from the NDC’s Commandant, Lieutenant General Olivier Rittimann, who welcomed the lecturers and Course Members in this first Field Study of SC 138. The Auditorium was unusually empty due to the most recent COVID restrictions in effect. Following the Commandant’s speech, the Italian Deputy Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Luigi Francesco De Leverano, delivered his introductory speech and welcomed all Course Members and staff taking part in this Field Study.
The first presentation of the session was delivered by Counselor Fabio Rugge, Head of the Office for NATO and Strategic Security and Politico-Military Issues in the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who spoke about the Italian priorities and current adaptation to NATO’s mission. Afterwards, Dr. Ezio Gaetano, ‘Primo Dirigente’ of the Police Force in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, shared his expertise on the Italian perspective about the challenges of contemporary terrorism, followed by an interesting Q & A session focused primarily on international radicalization. The second part of the Field Study Day 1 began with the Deputy Director of Division III of the Italian Defence General Staff, Rear Admiral Luca Conti, who presented the main features of the Italian Defence Strategy, as well as Italy’s positions and operational framework at the international level. Lastly, Major General Luigi Del Bene, from the Italian Joint Operations Headquarters provided an insight into the JOHQ’s roles and responsibilities, the strategic context, and national commitment to the Alliance’s mission. Field Study One continues its virtual journey to Spain on Day 2.
Public Affairs Office
(Prepared by Mr Jose Moron Marchena, ESP C)
Collège de Défense de l'OTAN