Conference of Commanders and Command Senior Enlisted Leaders (CSELs) of NATO and partners’ special forces

NATO SOF Commanders’ and CSELs Conference was held in Split from 26 till 28 November 2024.

The conference was organized by the Allied Special Operations Forces Command (A SOFCOM) and the CAF Special Forces Command.

The event brought together Commanders, CSELs and representatives of the special forces from the Alliance’s countries to discuss the security challenges facing the NATO alliance. The important role of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) in protecting the collective defence of the Alliance was reaffirmed. The conference highlighted the strengthening of the value of global cooperation in solving common challenges.

The conference was opened by the Chief of the CAF General Staff LTG Tihomir Kundid. Welcoming the conference participants, LTG Kundid emphasized Croatia’s unwavering commitment to NATO and its shared values.

“It is a pleasure to host this key conference of Commanders and CSELs of NATO special operations forces. Together we are stronger and more resilient while facing the challenges of our time. This conference reflects our joint determination to adapt to the ever-changing security environment,” General. Kundid said.

On this occasion, General Kundid emphasized that we are working on the development of interoperability through joint training and exercises, which is of key importance for joint action in real operations.

“This conference contributes to harmonisation of our views and synchronisation of joint plans so that they are as ready as possible for joint action in the case of need,” General Kundid concluded in closing.

Commander of the Allied Special Operations Forces Command, LTG Richard Angle, in his presentation emphasized the importance of unity and innovation and said: “At the time when the NATO alliance is facing unparalleled challenges, the strength of our collective determination lies in the ability to learn, adapt and innovate. This conference underscores our commitment to ensuring that Allied SOF remain at the forefront of modern warfare – ready to deter and, if necessary, defend against any threat.”

The Commander of the CAF Special Forces Colonel Ivan Miloš, emphasized the importance of collective action in dealing with growing security challenges.

In his speech, he referred to the military history of Croatia and development of the Croatian Army’s special forces in the Homeland War, and recalled the principles of “Five truths of special forces – 5 SOF truths”, which were crucial in the development of efficient and highly capable special forces that contributed to final victory in the war and in achieving the NATO capabilities we have today.

The CSEls of NATO Special Operations Forces emphasized the importance of developing leaders at all levels, emphasizing trust and cohesion within the Alliance as essential for operational success. The CSELs from NATO emphasized their commitment to fostering resilient, capable SOF teams ready for future missions.