NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen | Netherland America Institute Limburg (NAIL)

NATO E-3A AIRBORNE

EARLY WARNING
AND

CONTROL FORCE

The E-3A Component is one of the two operational units of the NATO Airborne Early Warning & Control Force (NAEW&C Force). It holds a unique place in military history because it was the first multinational flying unit established by the Alliance. Its mission is to perform all surveillance and battle management tasks ordered by the NAEW&C Force Commander on behalf of the SACEUR.

The post of E-3A Component Commander in the rank of brigadier general is held alternately by the US Air Force and the German Air Force. The Deputy Commander is always a colonel of the Netherlands Air Force. The structure of the E-3A Component comprises three wings: Operations, Logistics and Base Support, as well as the Forward Operating Bases and one Forward Operating Location. Each wing is headed by a colonel from a specific nation participating in the NAEW&C Force program.

Around twenty multinational crews from 19 of the 30 NATO member nations are assigned to the E-3A Component's two operational squadrons. The E-3A Component has a multinational workforce of around 1400 military and civilian personnel.

NAEW&Force Commander Top 4 priorities

1. Ensure Mission Effectiveness, Ensure a high-readiness NAEW&C Force

capable of supporting Alliance objectives and ensure safe and professional

mission execution.

2. Develop efficient, effective processes to meet future Force requirements

Take Care of our Personnel and their Families.

3. Be Good Stewards of the Resources Entrusted to Us.

4. Foster a Climate of Professionalism & Mutual Respect.

Brigadier General

Kristen D. Thompson

As from June 21, 2024 Brigadier General Kristen D. Thompson is the new commander on the NATO Airborn Early Warning & Control Force E-3A Component.

She earned her commission from the US Air Force Academy in 2001. She severd in several commanding positions as the 960th Airborn Air Control Squadron, the 380th Expeditionary Operations Group etc.

Brigadier General Kristen D. Thompson is a command pilot with more than 3,800 flying hours including more than 700 combat hours in the U.S. and NATO E-3 AWACS and RC-135 aircraft.

After 12 years of absense she is back in Geilenkirchen Germany.