Introduction to the Planning of Joint Operations course
Date: (16-09-2026)
This week, the Crisis Management and Disaster Response Centre of Excellence is running its "Introduction to the Planning of Joint Operations" (IPJO) course, bringing together participants from partner nations and institutions for an intensive week of training on the NATO Operations Planning Process (OPP).
The course walks participants through the full arc of operational-level planning - from strategic estimate and mission analysis, through centre of gravity and factor analysis, to course of action development and Operations Plan (OPLAN) production. Risk identification, analysis and management are addressed as an integrated part of the planning cycle, alongside practical instruction in the TOPFAS planning support toolset.
The course combines expert-led instruction with hands-on syndicate exercises, giving participants the opportunity to apply planning concepts to a realistic scenario and to present their work to their peers. This year's programme features guest instructors from Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), the National Defence University of Romania, and the NCI Academy - bringing current operational and academic expertise directly into the classroom.
Participants join in person, at CMDR COE's premises, reflecting the Centre's continued commitment to accessible, high-quality professional military education.
The course runs from 14 to 18 September 2026 and concludes with participant presentations, a course assessment, and the awarding of certificates.
News
Official Appointment of CMDR COE Department Head for the NATO Business Continuity Management
» read more
CMDR COE in the Industrial Day at Tech ParkParticipation in a high-level conference at Tech Park Sofia
» read more
Broader Initiative to Fortify ResilienceResilience workshop focused on Public Private Partnership
» read more
Navigating Resilience: A Journey through CMDR COE Internship with Ms. Tsveti MonovaExploring the Interplay of Strategic Communications and Resilience in the Military Context
» read more
Strategic Collaboration and Future Synergies: A Diplomatic Dialogue at CMDR COEExploring Partnerships for Crisis Management and Disaster Response between Denmark and the Republic of Bulgaria.
» read more
Participation in I/ITSEC 2023CMDR COE delivered an article on the subject “Refugee Flow Management and Resilience Implications”
» read more
Professionals Conclude Intensive Course on Strategic Decision-Making for Crisis Response OperationsEmpowering Leaders with Critical Skills in Crisis Management
» read more
Kick-off meeting for MSG-221 ProjectMSG – 221: M&S in Support of Building Resilience and Management of People Mass Movement
» read more
Annual CMDR COE Academic Advisory Board and Steering Committee meetingsFrom 24 to 26 October 2023 in Sofia, Bulgaria was conducted the 4th CMDR COE AAB and the 11th CMDR COE SC meetings.
» read more
That’s a wrap for 2023!Successful completion of the NATO-approved Gender Focal Point Course online iteration
» read more
Solidifying partnership The CMDR COE Director and the NCGM Commandant reaffirm commitment to cooperation
» read more
Expert Workshop on Gender PerspectivesThe CMDR COE successfully concluded an Expert Workshop on Gender Perspectives
» read more
CMDR COE Extends Crucial Assistance to Jordan′s National ExerciseCMDR COE Collaborates with Jordan in Evaluating Earthquake Preparedness.
» read more
Multinational Crisis Management CourseA course for the Jordanian Public Security Directorate
» read more
Collaboration with an universityAgreement with the University of National and World Economy (UNWE).
» read more
Disaster Risk Management Course for the Jordanian Public Security Directorate11-16 June 2023
» read more
Practice of crisis management proceduresA training session took place on June 7, 2023, at the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs...
» read more
