Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR)

What is SACEUR's authority, tasks and responsibilities?

SACEUR commands military operations as well as conducts military planning, including the identification and requesting of forces required for the full range of Alliance missions, which include the promotion of stability, contribution to crisis management and provision for effective defence.

He makes recommendations to NATO's political and military authorities on any military matter which might affect his ability to carry out his responsibilities. SACEUR has direct access to national Chiefs of Staff and may communicate with appropriate national authorities, as necessary, to facilitate the accomplishment of his missions.

In the case of aggression threatening a NATO member state, SACEUR, as Supreme Commander, is responsible for executing all military measures within his capability and authority, and to preserve or restore the security of his Area of Responsibility (AOR).

The Supreme Allied Commander Europe, also has an important public profile and is the senior military spokesman for the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). Through his own activities and those of his public information staff he maintains regular contacts with the press and media and undertakes official visits within NATO countries and in the countries with which NATO is developing dialogue, cooperation and partnership. He is also responsible for developing military contacts with NATO's Partnership for Peace Partners.

The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) is also the Commander of the United States European Command (COMUSEUCOM).