The Multinational Corps South-East in Sibiu and the people behind it
On NATO’s Eastern Flank, Romania has become, in recent years, a vital pillar of regional security
România Internațional, 29.04.2026, 12:00
On NATO’s Eastern Flank, Romania has become, in recent years, a vital pillar of regional security. In this context, the Multinational Corps Southeast in Sibiu (center) plays a key role in coordinating allied efforts in this part of Europe. It is a complex military structure where officers from several NATO member states work together to plan and synchronize the Alliance’s response to current security challenges. From military exercises to operational scenarios, everything is meticulously planned so that the response is swift and coherent. And beyond the plans and structures are the people, those who give meaning to these mechanisms. Among them is Lieutenant Colonel Frédéric of the French Army, who has been stationed in Sibiu since last summer. He has been assigned to the Multinational Corps Southeast Command, within the G5 structure. G5 is the department responsible for planning. Previously, he participated in numerous missions abroad, and since August he has been stationed in Sibiu.
Planning is one of the essential components of such a command. Here, every detail matters, and the experience gained in international missions translates into concrete decisions tailored to the realities on the ground. Beyond professional responsibilities, this mission also holds broader significance for the French soldier who told us: “Overall, for me, this mission reaffirms my country’s commitment to NATO and, in particular, to Romania. At the same time, it strengthens the historic bond between the two nations—France and Romania.”
A perspective that speaks to commitment and the relationship between allies—one built over time and reaffirmed today through our presence here on the Eastern Flank. But for Lieutenant Colonel Frédéric, such missions also represent a personal journey: “On a personal level, this role marks an important milestone in my career. I started 26 years ago in a regiment, and along the way I’ve held various positions—at the division level, at the operational level, and now in a multinational command. For me, it’s a real opportunity to expand my knowledge and take another step forward in an international environment.”
A journey built over the years, from the early stages of their careers to the level of multinational structures. In Sibiu, service members work in an environment where diverse experiences complement one another, and the goal is shared: a rapid and effective response, regardless of the situation. French officer Frédéric told us about the role of the command: “This corps contributes to NATO’s deterrence and defence missions on Europe’s southern flank. And believe me, we are ready to fulfil our mission. Of course, nothing is perfect, as is always the case, but the corps’ command and control structure is combat-ready. As SACEUR (Supreme Allied Commander Europe) says: we are ready to fight today or even tonight. And this is an essential point I want to emphasise.”
Beyond the maps, strategies, and chains of command, there are the people. Soldiers who come from different corners of Europe, but who here in Sibiu speak the same language—that of responsibility and trust. Perhaps what matters is not just how well-trained they are, but also the fact that they are here, together, ready to act when needed.
