General Nick Perry has become the first British officer to command NATO’s Joint Force Command Norfolk, taking over the headquarters responsible for protecting the transatlantic link and directing Alliance operations across the North Atlantic and High North, according to NATO.
Perry assumed command during a ceremony aboard USS Nimitz in Norfolk, Virginia, on 24 September, succeeding US Navy Vice Admiral Doug Perry, who had led the headquarters since January 2024. The change also separates command of JFC Norfolk from leadership of the US Second Fleet, posts which had previously been held by the same US Navy officer since the NATO headquarters was established in 2019.
The appointment follows NATO’s February decision to place European officers in command of all three of its Joint Force Commands, which are responsible for directing operations at the operational level during periods of crisis and conflict. JFC Norfolk has particular responsibility for the North Atlantic and the routes linking North America with Europe, placing the headquarters at the centre of plans to move forces and supplies across the ocean during a major NATO operation.
Perry said: “The North Atlantic is once again a theatre of strategic competition. The assumptions many of us enjoyed for decades can no longer be taken for granted. That is why deterrence matters, readiness matters and warfighting matters. And that is why this command exists.
“Our task is simple to describe but demanding to deliver: to ensure that NATO can deter aggression, defend the Alliance and, if deterrence fails, prevail in conflict alongside our Allies and partners.”
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, who attended the ceremony, said: “It was a pleasure to be present as General Nick Perry became the first British officer to assume Command of Joint Force Command Norfolk. A proud moment for the UK and for NATO, reflecting our enduring commitment to the Alliance and its collective defence.”
Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Alexus G. Grynkewich said: “The transition of this Command to an allied General is a watershed moment for NATO. This is an essential milestone as we work towards building a stronger and more sustainable Alliance.”
