In February, Norway was given the green light from NATO to establish a new regional Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC). The existing CAOCs are located in Uedem, Germany and Torrejón, Spain.
This third centre will be responsible to plan, direct, task, coordinate, supervise and support air operations primarily in the Nordic region and the High North. It will also maintain a broader geographical overview.
Regarding the specific location of the centre, the main alternatives are Reitan outside of Bodø, Northern Norway and in Rygge in Moss, Southeastern Norway.
Reitan is preferred by Norway’s Chief of Defense, General Eirik Kristoffersen, reports the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) on Wednesday after gaining insight into a classified document.
Kristoffersen’s recommendation is dated March 6th, 2025. The decision will ultimately be made by the Norwegian government.