NATO SFA COE: 1st course for Security Force Assistance operators in 2021 concluded

(To Greater Defense)
11/03/21

The course, held from 1 to 9 March in virtual mode in compliance with the restrictions in force, saw the participation of more than thirty members, both military and civilians from 9 NATO and Partner countries. Furthermore, the teaching staff of the NATO SFA COE was supported by numerous speakers and experts in the field of SFA belonging to important international military and academic realities.

The aim of the course is to improve the skills and effectiveness of military and civilian personnel employed in Stabilization operations as Adviser, Mentor e Trainer, in support of the local Forces of an Assisted Nation.

The course was preceded by a preliminary distance study phase through the attendance of an “orientation to the SFA” session on the NATO online platform and by the analysis of the SFA doctrine in use.

The lectures, focused on practical cases and observations from theaters of operation, highlighted the importance of analyzing the operating environment and the role of stakeholders involved in the activity of Security Force Assistance.

Particular attention was paid to the understanding of local culture and traditions, to communication techniques and to the development of a multisectoral vision that characterize the complex SFA activities.

The theoretical notions imparted during the lessons were subsequently tested in the course of virtual working groups which, led by qualified tutors, aroused great interest and involvement among the attendees.

The "SFA Operators course" is part of a broader NATO training offer, as it meets the requirements of highly specialized training and training, unique of its kind, within the Alliance.

Furthermore, it allows participating staff to acquire the necessary knowledge to understand the environment in which they will operate and the best approach to use to interact with local authorities.

NATO SFA COE is committed to developing further training solutions, more advanced and specific, to increase the level of expertise in advisory activities for military and civilian personnel of the Alliance.