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SIGONELLA, Italy - The NATO Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Force (NISRF) in Sigonella hosted a visit by the Allied Command Operations (ACO) Management Board on June 18, 2024.

The visit, led by Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) Chief of Staff (COS), Admiral Joachim Rühle, provided a valuable opportunity for senior ACO Management Board representatives to see first-hand the capabilities of the NISRF and its role in supporting NATO operations.  The Board is ultimately responsible for planning and execution of Alliance operations.

This visit represented a unique opportunity for NISRF to showcase the crucial role we play in supporting Alliance operations

NISRF Support Wing Commander Colonel Fernando Sánchez-Arjona Lamparero explains the RQ-4D remotely piloted aircraft (Photo: NISRF/NATO)

During the visit, the delegation received briefings on the NISRF’s mission, structure, and current operations. They also toured the facilities and had the chance to witness ongoing flying operations. The visit highlighted the critical role the NISRF plays in providing essential intelligence to NATO commanders, enabling them to make informed decisions and ensure the success of NATO missions.

"We were delighted to welcome the ACO Management Board to Sigonella," said Colonel Stefano Bianca, NATO ISR Force Deputy Commander. "This visit represented a unique opportunity for NISRF to showcase the crucial role we play in supporting Alliance operations and ensuring our military leaders have the necessary situational awareness," he added.

NATO SHAPE Chief of Staff Admiral Joachim Rühle and SHAPE Deputy Chief of Staff Operations Major General Matthew J. Van Wagenen at NISRF in Sigonella, Italy (Photo: NISRF/NATO)

NISRF members explain the work of NISRF analysts to the ACO Management Board delegation (Photo: NISRF/NATO)

The delegation expressed their appreciation for the hospitality of the NISRF and the professionalism and dedication of Force personnel, commending them for their vital contribution to NATO's mission.

This visit underscores the strong relationship between the NISRF and ACO. The continued collaboration between these two entities is essential in ensuring that NATO has the intelligence it needs to deter aggression and maintain security throughout the Alliance.

Colonel Stefano Bianca, Deputy Commander NISRF, thanks Admiral Joachim Rühle for the visit of the ACO Management Board 2024 (Photo: NISRF/NATO)

Group photo of the delegation of the ACO Management Board 2024 in Sigonella, Italy (Photo: NISRF/NATO)

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