Joint Force Command Norfolk

Joint Force Command - Norfolk (JFC-NF) is a, joint operational level command part of the NATO Military Command Structure under Allied Command Operations. Its headquarters is located in Norfolk, Virginia, in the United States.

Background
In late 2017-early 2018, NATO approved two new commands, a rear area transit command which was finally announced as the Joint Support and Enabling Command, to be located at Ulm, Germany, and a new command for the Atlantic. Pentagon spokesman Johnny Michael remarked that "NATO is refocusing on the Atlantic in recognition of the great power competition prompted by a resurgent Russia."

In March 2018 Chair of the Military Committee General Petr Pavel announced that the new Atlantic command would become part of the NATO Force Structure at the level of a Joint Force Command, similar to the two that exist at Brunssum and Naples. On 7 June 2018 the Secretary-General said the new JFC would have its headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia, in the United States. The name was confirmed as Joint Force Command Norfolk at the NATO Summit in July. It was to be commanded by the Vice Admiral who leads the U.S. national United States Second Fleet.

Establishment
Joint Force Command Norfolk was established due to the rising Russian threat, making the Atlantic sea routes a critical domain. Its counterpart 2nd Fleet was established because the United States Navy "needed a commander to direct sustained combat operations in the Atlantic". JFCNF will aim to works seamlessly with allies and NATO partners in all domains and to provide awareness and synchronization with allies, while ensuring readiness and contributing to NATO objectives and core tasks. In this role, the command will contribute to enhance NATO’s warfighting capability. JFC Norfolk was formally activated by NATO's North Atlantic Council on 26 July 2019.

The first JFCNF commander is Vice Admiral Andrew L. Lewis, USN who also commands the recently re-established United States Second Fleet also headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia.