11/09/2026
🇷🇴 What can we learn from our NATO allies? Our found out in Romania… 🇷🇴
Reservists from FOX have returned from an international defence conference in Brașov, Romania, aimed at developing their skills as leaders within NATO’s reserve community.
🌍 Representatives from the RNR attended a four-day programme hosted by the CIOR - Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers, commonly referred to by its French acronym CIOR. The event brought together representatives from eight nations across NATO, including the United States, Finland, Spain, Canada and Romania.
🤝 Founded in 1948 in the aftermath of the Second World War, CIOR emerged from a shared determination among officers who had served in the war and in resistance movements to strengthen collective security and preserve the values of cooperation.
Today, CIOR acts as a key link between NATO and its reserve communities, promoting interoperability, leadership development and the sharing of best practice across allied nations. The organisation highlights the unique role reservists play, combining civilian expertise with military capability.
🏔️ Throughout the conference junior officers participated in a varied programme including a high-level discussion exercise, intercultural communication workshops and a series of national presentations in which each delegation outlined the structure and role of reserve services in their home country. Delegates also visited the Romanian Army’s specialist 21st Mountain Battalion, gaining insight into the capabilities of troops, trained for operations in challenging mountain terrain.
🏰 In addition to the formal programme, the officers took part in several cultural and professional excursions during their downtime. These included a visit to the historic Bran Castle—often associated with the legend of Dracula—and time exploring the old town of Brașov.
🗣️ Reflecting on the experience, Sub-Lieutenant Max Beckett said, “It was a fantastic experience- you meet some great people and learning how different countries contribute to NATO operations and understanding my role within it was hugely beneficial. The conference enables young officers to gain fresh perspectives on leadership and highlighted how collaboration across cultures can strengthen operational effectiveness.”
Support for the initiative was echoed by Lt Cdr Henry Watts, the former Commanding Officer of HMS Flying Fox who highlighted the long-term value of such programmes. He said, “I am highly supportive of the work of CIOR to bring together young and enthusiastic reservists from across the NATO countries, to swap ideas and build relationships. I attended a CIOR symposium in Toronto back when I was a Sub-Lieutenant and it proved a useful grounding for a long serving career with NATO partners on exercises and operations throughout my career.”
Participation in events such as this underscores the continuing importance of international cooperation, with CIOR playing a central role in preparing the next generation of reserve officers to operate effectively alongside allied forces.
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