On Monday, February 17, 2025, a ceremonial inauguration of the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) took place in Bydgoszcz, Poland. The event was attended by, among others, Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Šekerinska, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Admiral Pierre Vandier, as well as Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna.
Photos: senior corporal Wojciech Król/MOND
“The NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre has begun its operations. This is the first initiative of its kind, the first institution of this type, serving as a tangible testament to the relationship between NATO and Ukraine. This is an important moment for our partnership because we can openly talk about the NATO-Ukraine partnership – it has been ongoing since the beginning of the war, encompassing established and organized support. However, this two-way activity – both for Poland and NATO countries, as well as for Ukraine – represents true solidarity. Solidarity with one another, not against each other,” said Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during a press conference.
During the press conference, the Minister of National Defense outlined the objectives and significance of the newly established Centre.
“This is an important moment in these extremely challenging times. When we planned the opening of JATEC – the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre – a few weeks ago, none of us probably expected it would take place at such a crucial moment. In the context of the situation in Ukraine and our discussion about the only acceptable and just peace, this event holds great significance. It is tangible support for a fighting Ukraine. (…) Firstly, the support for Ukraine from the West, NATO, and all allies is crucial and has been consistently provided for nearly three years of war. Secondly, it is an expression of a friendly approach to joint efforts,” emphasized Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
The decision to establish the Centre was made on February 15, 2024, during a meeting of NATO defense ministers and later confirmed at the NATO Summit in Washington (July 9–11, 2024). JATEC, as a joint NATO-Ukraine initiative, aims to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine in achieving full interoperability with NATO forces and to facilitate the exchange of experiences between both sides.
During the NATO defense ministers’ meeting in Brussels on October 18, 2024, it was decided to appoint Polish General Wojciech Ozga as the commander of the Centre. JATEC achieved initial operational capability in January 2025 and is expected to reach full operational capacity by the end of the year.
“The Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) in Bydgoszcz is the first tangible institution within NATO structures, jointly created by NATO and Ukraine. This signifies that Ukraine is getting closer to NATO and is becoming a strategic partner of our Alliance. We are establishing organizations that enable the exchange of experiences and the enhancement of capabilities and skills. This is a two-way relationship. (…) This is true solidarity. JATEC is a symbol of solidarity between NATO and Ukraine. And for Poland, solidarity is a particularly important word. It is not an empty one because it stands for freedom,” emphasized the Minister of National Defense.
Bydgoszcz, already a strategic hub for NATO operations, hosts the NATO Joint Force Training Centre (JFTC), the NATO Force Integration Unit, the NATO Signal Battalion, the NATO Military Police Centre of Excellence, and the NATO Communications and Information Systems Support Group. The city is also home to the International School of Bydgoszcz, where the children of NATO officers and personnel receive their education.
The ceremonial opening of the JATEC Centre highlighted the commitment of Poland, NATO, and Ukraine to strengthening joint defense structures and enhancing the interoperability of their armed forces.
Press release
