NATO Logistics Handbook October 1997

Chapter 12: Host Nation Support HNS Planning for Non-Article 5 Operations 1213. There are some major differences in the method and terms of reference for HNS options between Article 5 and non-Article 5 missions. One of the main differences, from a logistic standpoint, stems from the relationship of NATO forces to the nation in which the operation is conducted or supported from. Article 5 Operations 1214. Under Article 5 operations each Host Nation has specified responsibilities for assisting in the coordination and sustainment of NATO forces, including reinforcing and prepositioned forces. HNS arrangements for Article 5 operations are normally prearranged and agreed under a standing NATO HNS agreement. Non-Article 5 Operations 1215. Non-Article 5 missions by their very nature occur in regions where agreements do not normally exist between NATO and the supporting nation or nations. This situation leads to the following alternatives, among others, for meeting support shortfalls. The first and preferred method is the establishment of a HNS agreement. If a legitimate government exists and there is sufficient time to negotiate an agreement, the implementation of HNS under an umbrella MOU is optimal. In this case, the MNC will, in conjunction with the troop contributing nations prepare a HNS agreement on behalf of all NATO and non-NATO forces that are part of the NATO force package. A second method is used primarily in cases where formal HNS agreements are not practical. This may be true because an agreement could not be reached with the Host Nation, or in some cases, because no legitimate government exists with which to negotiate an agreement. In cases where no HNS agreement is in place, ICR may be obtained through contracting. In these cases agreements are made between the NATO Commander and individual civilian providers, rather than the national government acting as a guarantor of support. 1216. In practice there are many similarities between HNS and ICR. Most significantly, in both, resources are usually obtained through contracts, under the coordination of a NATO contracting coordination activity. The distinctions between HNS and ICR are very fine, yet very important. An important point to remember for non-Article 5 operations is that the logistic planner can expect to use ICR, at least until an HNS agreement can be established. REFERENCES MC 319/1 NATO Principles and Policies for Logistics MC 334/1 NATO Principles and Policies for Host Nation Support Planning MC 411 NATO Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Policy ALP-12 Guidance for the Planning and Preparation of Host Nation Support Agreements/Arrangements