Course Iterations

Sub Number Date Location Registration
SOF-SO-31908-D-2024-25 27 Jan - 07 Feb, 2025  RL: NATO SOF Campus
SOF-SO-31908-E-2024-25 10 Mar - 21 Mar, 2025  METT: METT LTU
SOF-SO-31908-F-2024-25 12 May - 23 May, 2025  METT: METT GBR

Course Information

SOCC Planning Course

As the Comprehensive Operational Planning Directive (COPD) is applicable for NATO planning at the strategic and operational levels, there is the potential to adapt it to the component level. Special Operations Component Command (SOCC) will be required to adjust its planning efforts and procedures to effectively contribute to the planning process. For the SOCC, this implies the early dispatch of liaison elements, especially the special operations planning and liaison element (SOPLE), to ensure timely and accurate integration of SOF into the COPD planning process at all levels simultaneously.

The main focus of this 10-day course is on understanding, applying and executing the planning process on the component command level. First week is mainly composed of lectures as well as shorter exercises in break-out sessions. Second week is composed of group sessions in syndicates with focus on the planning process and critical thinking.


On the conclusion of the course the student will be better prepared as a staff member to contribute efficiently and effectively during the planning efforts within the responsibilities of a SOCC HQ.

Course Aim

To educate students on conducting theatre SOF operational-/ component-level planning and operational art and design as members of a NATO SOCC planning team.

Objectives

Each graduate will be able to conduct operational planning at the component level and produce, as a member of a planning team, a SOCC component-level plan using the appropriate operational planning processes and references.

Target Audience

This course is designed for staff officers (OF-2 to OF-5), warrant officers, and senior NCOs (OR-8 to OR-9) with varied SOF backgrounds from operations (sea, air, land) to intelligence and logistics. Students must have a good comprehension of the SOF planning process and strong critical thinking skills.

Requirements

Preferable

  • Students should have a 3332 rating in English language skills and should be comfortable speaking English in front of groups.
  • Students should have a NATO SECRET clearance to allow unescorted access to NSOU facilities and CAB.

Mandatory

  • Students must complete the specified prerequisites given after enrollment and before arriving to the course in due time.