The Military
Committee
The
Military Committee (MC) is responsible for recommending
to NATO's political authorities those measures considered
necessary for the common defence of the NATO area. Its principal
role is to provide direction and advice on military policy and
strategy.
It provides guidance on military matters to
the Major NATO Commanders whose representatives attend
its meetings, and is responsible for the overall conduct of
the military affairs of the Alliance under the authority of
the Council, as well as for the efficient operation of Military
Committee agencies.
The Committee assists in developing overall
strategic concepts for the Alliance and prepares an annual long-term
assessment of the strength and capabilities of countries and
areas posing a risk to NATO's interests. Its additional responsibilities
in times of crises, tension or war are to advise the Council
and Defence Planning Committee of the military situation
and to make recommendations on the use of military force, the
implementation of contingency plans and the development of appropriate
rules of engagement.
In the framework of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership
Council (EAPC) and Partnership
for Peace (PfP), the Military Committee meets regularly
with EAPCW Partner countries at the level of national
Military Representatives (once a month) and at Chiefs
of Defence (CHODS) level (twice a year) to deal with military
cooperation issues.
