NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg participated in the Change of Command at Allied Command Transformation in the United States on Thursday (23 September 2021) . At the ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia, General Philippe Lavigne of the French Air and Space Force took over from General André Lanata as Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, one of NATO’s two strategic commanders.
The Supreme Allied Commander Transformation leads the transformation of NATO’s military structures, forces, capabilities and doctrines in order to improve the military effectiveness of the Alliance, and makes recommendations to NATO’s political and military authorities.
The Secretary General said: “France is a strong and highly valued NATO Ally, with cutting edge capabilities and highly professional forces. For over a decade, France has nominated its best officers to take this command.” He praised both General Lanata and General Lavigne as “great leaders committed to our transatlantic Alliance.”
Mr Stoltenberg highlighted the important work of Allied Command Transformation in helping adapt NATO to new challenges, including emerging disruptive technologies: “For NATO to be future-proof, we need to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change. Accelerate innovation, so that we remain competitive and retain our edge.”
In recognition of General Lanata’s contribution to the Alliance, the Secretary General presented him with the NATO Meritorious Service Medal.