UK assumes NATO's elite special operations command for the first time
The UK has taken command of NATO's Allied Reaction Force Special Operations Component Command (SOCC) for the first time. This leadership role marks a significant step for British special forces within the alliance. The UK will oversee the multinational unit from July 2026 to June 2027.
Preparations for the role were completed by January 31, 2026, following rigorous validation exercises. These included NATO's Hyperion Storm drills in Norway, held in 2025 and 2026. The exercises involved UK, Spanish, and other allied forces to test readiness across special reconnaissance, direct action, and military assistance missions.
The UK's SOCC had to meet over 850 performance measures to gain NATO certification. This joint headquarters will coordinate maritime, land, and air special operations task groups under its command. Spain is contributing a Special Operations Land Task Group, working alongside British units.
This leadership position aligns with commitments made in the UK's 2020 Integrated Review and later defence planning. The Allied Reaction Force itself is NATO's high-readiness unit, designed to deploy rapidly in crises. The UK's role in commanding its special operations component reflects the country's growing influence in NATO's rapid-response capabilities.
The UK's formal validation by NATO confirms its readiness to lead the SOCC from mid-2026. The command period will last until June 2027, with multinational forces under British direction. This marks the first time the UK's Joint Special Operations Forces have held such a key NATO leadership role.
