Our COE has continued to support the development of new NATO CBRN capabilities with the participation of COE member LTC Martin Peša at the Challenge Sub-group meeting. Representatives from eight NATO countries and JCBRN Defence COE met in Paris, 25 – 27 January 2011, led by Norwegian chairman Dr. Bjørn Arne Johnsen. The meeting was inaugurated by Brigadier General J. F. Parlanti, who appreciated the role of the Challenge Subgroup in new capabilities development.

        The main attention was paid to the future development of the Challenge Levels publication, where the significant step forward was made. The Challenge Subgroup was briefed by the Physical Protection Subgroup liaison officer on PPSG requirements associated with the development of a lightweight chemical protection suit. The mutual cooperation of both subgroups should also continue in the future, therefore COE representative LTC Martin Peša was delegated as CSG liaison officer for the next PPSG meeting.

        Furthermore Dr. Leif-Haldor Bjerkeseth (NOR) informed the subgroup plenary on changes in NATO publications development and desired a new structure of Working Groups and other NATO bodies. These changes will influence the business that the CSG is dealing with, especially from a technical and administrative point of view.

       At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Bjørn Arne Johnsen appreciated the French hospitality and expressed attendees’ thanks to organizers. The next meeting is scheduled in Oslo, Norway, in July 2011.

Author: LTC Martin Peša