- Air Force
- International cooperation
European Air Group
The European Air Group (EAG) is a collaborative initiative for military cooperation between 7 nations, based on an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA).
The aim of the EAG is ‘to improve the operational capabilities of the Parties’ Air Forces to carry out operations in pursuit of shared interests, primarily through mechanisms which enhance interoperability’. The EAG Headquarters are located at RAF High Wycombe in Great Britain.
The organisation started out on 27 June 1995 as the Franco-British European Air Group (FBEAG), a cooperative venture between France and the United Kingdom. The two nations had both operated closely together during the Gulf War (1990-1991) as well as during the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. In November 1997, Belgium, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands and Spain were invited to join the organisation as ‘correspondent’ members. On 16 June 1998 Italy became a full member, and on 12 July 1999, the other observer nations, including The Netherlands, followed suit.
The so-called European Air Group Steering Group (EAGSG), consisting of the Air Chiefs of the various participating nations, is responsible for overseeing the EAG. The members of the EAGSG act as Director EAG on a rotational basis. During 2008 and 2009, the current Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, Lieutenant General Jac Jansen, held this post as well. During his tour as Director, the EAG accomplished a great deal in the area of procedures, standardization and support to other international cooperation initiatives.
Social Media