20 Years of NATO Training Centre in Bydgoszcz

NATO Joint Force Training Centre (JFTC) established in Bydgoszcz in 2004 quickly assumed a significant role in NATO training structures. In 2009 it moved into a newly built, state-of-the-art facility with advanced Communication and Information System. By synthesizing NATO training requirements with cutting-edge technology, JFTC occupies a critical spot in the NATO transformation process. As the first NATO Command Structure unit established in Central and Eastern Europe it paved a way for other institutions affiliated to NATO, such as Military Police Centre of Excellence, NATO Force Integration Unit and the 3rd NATO Signal Battalion, all of which make Bydgoszcz the NATO Capital of Poland. Now it is staffed with 170 military and civilian officers representing 22 NATO nations: Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the USA, as well as Georgia in Partnership for Peace. “Looking back on the JFTC history and the last three years I feel very satisfied with what we have achieved together with the men and women, military and civilian, working shoulder to shoulder in our Centre” said Major General Norbert Wagner, JFTC Commander.