WW1 and NATO Deterrence Posture Study Visit to Romania
From 2 to 7 March 2025, the Concept Development and Experimentation (CD&E) Branch conducted a study trip to Romania. The purpose was to explore the World War I battlefields and get inside NATO deterrence and defence posture through NATO headquarters and Romanian brigade-level units Mountain and Mechanized, in contrast to the Western Front with attrition. In SACEUR AOR, Romania combined with Bulgaria.
At Sibiu we visited the Headquarters of the Multinational Corps Southeast (MNC-SE), a higher NATO HQ on the tactical level of SE. As part of NATO’s structure, with Romania as the framework nation, MNC-SE plays a land domain key role in RP SE. We were informed on the Corps’ operational tasks and their strategic importance, offering invaluable insight into NATO’s defence posture in the region. After the meeting, the group also explored several WW1 historical battle sites and mountain locations, further enriching their understanding of the terrain’s role in preparing and executing defence.
From Sibiu the team drove to Brașov, simulating Romanian Forces WW retreatment, where we met with the leadership of the 2nd Mountain Brigade. The brigade provided a comprehensive overview of its history and operations, specialising in mountain warfare, and shared information about its strategic importance within Romania’s defence framework. In the 21st Mountain Battalion in Predeal, a distinguished unit renowned for its expertise in mountain operations Romanian mountain units’ history trough historical battles was examined. The visit extended to the battalion’s training facilities, including a shooting range and a mountain hut used for field training.
An essential stop on the trip was the Mateiaș Mausoleum, a military monument dedicated to the heroes of the 1916-1918 war. The monument commemorates the Romanian soldiers who fell during World War I and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in defending the country’s sovereignty. The team took time to reflect on the significance of the site and its connection to Romania’s military history.
The journey continued through the renowned Oituz Pass, a historical area of great importance during the Romanian Campaign of 1917. The group explored a variety of local historical sites, including the Mărășești Museum, which commemorates the battle where Romanian forces successfully halted the advance of Austria-Hungary during World War I. This museum offered a detailed battle account, showcasing military artefacts and historic photographs. The group also visited key infrastructure in the region, gaining a deeper understanding of its strategic significance.
In Focsani the team visited the 282nd Armoured Brigade and discovered the role of the river Siret, with a collection of dams for defence purposes and a Focsani gap analysis. The local military history museum provided additional context about the region’s role in the war. The museum’s exhibits offered insights into Romania’s military history and the country’s contributions during World War I.
The study concluded in Bucharest, where the team visited the Multinational Division Southeast (MND-SE) Headquarters. At MND-SE, we engaged in productive discussions with the Chief of Staff and staff members, gaining valuable insights into the division’s challenges and operations. The visit allowed for a deeper understanding of the collaboration between NATO forces and the role Romania and NHDP play within this framework.
Overall, the study trip provided valuable insights and knowledge that will be instrumental in the preparation of the Romania WW1 Battlefield Study guide for tactical and operational levels of warfare and the execution of a case study later this year. From our Mountain Warfare Centre perspective, there are significant opportunities for continued collaboration with Romanian tactical land domain units and international headquarters, strengthening ties and fostering future cooperation in two areas: learning from history with the Battlefields study method and wargaming in support of operations planning; foundation for MW COE adaptation to NATO NWCC and DDA Family of Plans.
