Lieutenant General Nick Perry DSO MBE is set to become the first British officer to command NATO’s Joint Force Command (JFC) Norfolk in September 2026, a move that significantly strengthens British leadership within the alliance as European allies assume more prominent roles.
JFC Norfolk, based in Virginia, is a critical operational headquarters responsible for NATO operations across the Atlantic, UK, High North, and northern Europe, including Arctic security and protecting strategic sea lines of communication. This appointment is part of a broader shift where European officers will lead all three Joint Force Commands, while US officers will head the three component commands.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Lt Gen Perry, saying, "Lieutenant General Nick Perry represents the very best of the British military and I am in no doubt that he will be a superb Commander of JFC Norfolk." Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP added that Perry's command "will strengthen NATO’s defence and deterrence at this dangerous time, demonstrating the UK’s leading contribution to building a stronger, more capable Alliance."
Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Alexus G. Grynkewich highlighted the appointment as an example of European allies taking greater leadership, contributing to "NATO 3.0." Lt Gen Perry, who has served over 30 years and was previously UK Chief of Joint Operations, expressed his honor, saying, "It is a tremendous honour to have been selected as the next Commander JFC Norfolk." He looks forward to strengthening readiness and enhancing deterrence with allies.