The NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center (JTEC) is one of the 15 initiatives of the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package adopted at the NATO Summit in Wales, in August 2014, as part of the NATO Defence Capabilities Initiative. In May 2015, the working group of the NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center (JTEC) was created, and in August 2015, the Center was inaugurated in Krtsanisi with the participation of the NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg. The NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center was established as a structural entity in May 2016.
The functions of the NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center (JTEC) include supporting Georgia to strengthen, reform, modernize and transform the defence and security sector, as well as to improve the interoperability of the Georgian defence forces with NATO. The Center also helps Georgia advance in its preparations for eventual NATO membership, make its own contribution to strengthening regional stability and become a leading regional center.
The main task of the NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center is to conduct field training and command-staff training exercises, training and evaluation of the Georgian Defence Forces, units of NATO and partner countries, in order to ensure the strengthening of Georgia’s defence capabilities and improve interoperability with NATO standards.
NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center consists of 4 subordinate centers:
Simulations, Communications and Information Systems Center designed to provide training support for the Georgian Defense Forces (GDF), NATO members, and partner nations in both simulated environments and computer-assisted training utilizing Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulations (JCATS) system, Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System, Initial Home station Instrumentation Training System and Virtual Battlespace System (VBS).
Combat Training Center designed to conduct training and evaluation of Battalion Tactical Group (BTG) from the GDF’s Eastern and Western Commands in order to enhance defense capabilities.
Training Evaluation Center designed to evaluate brigade HQs, infantry battalions, company-size units. The center also runs training and assessment programmes in support of international operations, as well as conducting Observer-Coach Training (OCT) for both national and international students.