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SOFIA-BULGARIA Joint Logistics Support Group Naples (JLSGNP) recently completed a 3-week deployment to Sofia, Bulgaria. Over the course of three weeks, the JLSGNP team simulated critical logistic operations that reinforced the readiness and operational capabilities of NATO forces. The deployment, which took place at the National Military Training Centre (NMTC) in Charalista, Bulgaria was part of a comprehensive, multi-national training exercise designed to enhance interoperability, improve strategic logistics planning, and refine response strategies for a variety of potential operational environments.

During the deployment, JLSGNP held several key leader engagement visits. Further developing our relationships and continuing to strengthen the alliance. Working together as one team is vital to deter aggression and defend every inch of NATO territory. JLSGNP hosted the Bulgarian Chief of Defense, Admiral Emil Eftimov, Bulgarian Deputy Chief of Defense, Lieutenant General Mihail Dimitrov Popov Bulgarian Joint Force Commander, Major General Krasimir Marinov Kanev and the Logistics Support Command Commander, Brigadier General Todor Dimitrov Todorov.  

 “The time we spend training and learning together as one team will pay dividends when our name is called to defend NATO territory”.

In his address to the command, Brigadier General Ionel VLASIE emphasized the importance of building relationships with our NATO allies and continuing to enable the future.  “The time we spend training and learning together as one team will pay dividends when our name is called to defend NATO territory” he continued, “It’s not about where you’ve been that’s important but your destination that matters most. The collaboration and lessons learned during these past three weeks will have a positive impact on NATO and our alliance as we move forward together”.

JLSGNP exercised third line sustainment for forward operating positions on NATO’s South Eastern flank. JLSG acts as a single headquarters to coordinate and synchronize all logistic functions throughout the Joint Operations Area – South East (JOA-SE). The headquarters ensures unity of command and effort, enables economies of scale, and through an optimized deployment package, drives an advanced logistical footprint. The JLSG acts as a “one-stop shop” for anything logistics in theater. Having complete visibility of equipment and supplies as they flow from nations to fox holes. Having the ability to exercise this function presented multiple training opportunities and improved the way NATO conducts logistics. 

The successful completion of this exercise further strengthens NATO's broader security goals. The efforts and accomplishments of personnel who participated, were instrumental to the success of EXERCISE STEADFAST DUEL 2024. Their professionalism and dedication advanced their own training and contributed directly to NATO’s mission of ensuring collective security and operational effectiveness across the alliance.

The JLSG portion of the exercise included 20 NATO member nations, all working collaboratively to test and improve joint logistics operations under simulated, high-pressure conditions. JLSGNP personnel demonstrated exceptional professionalism and adaptability in a complex, multi-national setting.

The exercise also provided personnel with valuable hands-on experience in coordinating logistics in a multinational environment—an opportunity that will pay dividends in future joint operations. This deployment was instrumental in supporting NATO's mission to maintain a high state of readiness and enhance the alliance’s logistical coordination capabilities.