NAPLES, Italy – Allied Joint Force Command Naples completed exercise "Noble Bonus 2016,” March 18, 2016.

The primary focus of the exercise was to certify JFC Naples’ ability to mount and deploy the Operational Liaison Reconnaissance Team (OLRT) as well as familiarize staff members with operational procedures to prepare the headquarters to command and control the NATO Response Force for 2017 (NRF17).

The OLRT successfully deployed to Sofia, Bulgaria, where it was provided full logistical support by the Bulgarian NATO Force Integration Unit (NFIU) during the week-long exercise. Members of the OLRT and NFIU engaged in interoperability and core task training to enhance future NATO readiness.

"Noble Bonus 2016” is part of a larger "Noble Series” of exercises. The series refers to the set of exercises taking place in 2016 meant to certify the command and control, air, land, sea and special operations component headquarters which will make up NRF17.

Participation in the NRF is preceded by an extensive NATO Exercise program in order to integrate and standardize the various national contingents. The force will then be held on stand-by to deploy on operations for 12 months.  JFC Naples will assume command of the NRF from JFC Brunssum in 2017.

Story and photos by Allied Joint Force Command Naples Public Affairs Office