Commandant of NATO School Oberammergau visits the NDC

On 19 April 2023, the Commandant of NATO School Oberammergau (NSO), Colonel Jay Smith, visited the NATO Defense College (NDC).

Colonel Smith was accompanied by Colonel Carlo Cavalli, Special Advisor to the NSO Commandant. The aim, for the guests, was to gain a better understanding of the current NDC setup, its academic portfolio, research and engagement activities, and its place amongst all NATO Education and Training Facilities. The visit was also a chance to explore possible avenues for collaboration and mutual support between the two institutions, so both are able to better fulfil their mission, providing high-level education within NATO.

Upon arrival, Colonel Smith was welcomed by the NDC Dean, Dr Christopher M. Schnaubelt, and signed the Guest Book. Colonel Smith and Colonel Cavalli then attended a comprehensive briefing on the history, mission and main activities of the College by the NDC Division Heads. This was followed by a briefing delivered by NSO Commandant Colonel Smith, about NSO’s activities and functioning. After the two briefings, the visitors were taken on a tour of the College’s premises.

NATO School Oberammergau conducts education and individual training in support of current and developing NATO strategy, policy, doctrine and procedures. They are dedicated to remaining flexible and ready to rapidly respond to the challenges of the future security environment by supporting the educational and individual training requirements of NATO. NSO establishes strong and collaborative relationships with NATO’s Centres of Excellence, NATO’s Partnership Training and Education Centres and other leading academic institutions to collectively provide the most efficient and effective training capability for the Alliance and its partners. NSO is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its establishment this year.

NDC Public Affairs Office
(Prepared by Ms Zsofia Juhasz, HUN C)