US joining ceremony

On 22 May 2025, the NATO Explosive Ordnance Disposal Centre of Excellence (NATO EOD COE) commemorated the United States of America officially joining the COE as a Sponsoring Nation alongside the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and  Romania, with Slovakia as the host and Framework Nation. This event marked a significant milestone as the addition to the EOD COE since 2011. This addition will directly benefit the NATO Alliance by expanding our collaboration, cooperation, and integration capabilities. It underscores a shared commitment among NATO member states to enhance their public safety capabilities, ensuring regional stability, and promoting global peacekeeping efforts.

The NATO EOD COE was established in 2007 to enhance the EOD capabilities of NATO and partner nations. Located in Trenčín, Slovakia, the EOD COE focuses on providing specialised training, fostering research and development, and facilitating international collaboration to strengthen collective EOD capabilities. It is a key asset in NATO’s effort to improve the operational effectiveness of the EOD personnel who work to ensure the safety of personnel and communities affected by explosive ordnance.

The event was held at the Garrison House in Trenčín, Slovakia. It was attended by several prominent dignitaries and featured the U.S. Ambassador to Slovakia, the Honorable Mr. Gautam Rana, the First State Secretary of the Slovak Ministry of Defence, Mr. Igor Melicher, and the Director of the NATO EOD COE, Colonel František Mihalovič, as keynote speakers. This participation reflects the enthusiasm for this expanded partnership. The inclusion of the United States in the NATO EOD COE signifies a strengthening of our collective defence initiatives by helping transform the NATO Alliance. It underscores our shared values and commitment to security among NATO allies as it paves the way for a safer future.

Text: LTC Blake ZENTENO, (USA-A)

Photo: NATO EOD COE archive