Air Operations Support

This Branch amalgamates Combat Support (CS) and Combat Service Support (CSS) functions into a single entity that is the JAPCC’s ‘one-stop-shop’ for all functions that enable Air and Space Power projection. Areas of specific focus include, but are not limited to Air Mobility (Air Transport and Air to Air Refuelling), Joint Personnel Recovery (JPR), Joint Rotary Wing Operations, Electronic Warfare (EW), Force Protection (FP) and Logistics.

These activities are fundamental to the effective and resource-efficient delivery of NATO Air and Space Power. Furthermore, AOS must be considered in a holistic manner rather than as individual or discreet functions that are conducted in isolation. AOS is both a Force Enabler and a Force Multiplier. Put simply, it is the bedrock of NATO’s Air Operations.

Branch Head

Colonel
 Marco
 Kathmann
Joint Air Power Competence Centre

Colonel Marco Kathmann has been assigned to the JAPCC as the Branch Head Air Operations Support since September 2023. During his previous assignment he was Staff Officer Operations at the Permanent Joint Representation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to NATO in Brussels. After graduating as an officer in 1986, Col Kathmann served as platoon commander, director of operations and squadron commander. Col Kathmann is a Force protection officer, and his last operational assignment was Commander of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command. Following his operational career Col Kathmann was appointed Chief of Cabinet of the Commander Royal Netherlands Air Force and subsequently as Director of Compliance/National Security Authority at the Ministry of Defence.

Information provided is current as of October 2023

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