The Defence Planning Committee
How does it work in practice?
As is the case of all NATO committees, decisions are taken by consensus within the DPC.
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Although the work of the DPC focuses on the integrated military structure and military and defence related issues, in recent years, the NAC has also discussed some of these matters.
On 19 February 2003, the DPC authorised NATO military authorities to implement defensive measures to assist Turkey including preventive deployment of NATO Airborne Early Warning Aircraft (AWACS); support for possible deployment by Allies of theatre missile defences; and support for possible deployment by Allies of chemical and biological defence capabilities.
The work of the DPC is prepared by a number of subordinate committees with specific responsibilities. In particular, the Defence Review Committee coordinates the force planning process within NATO and examines other issues relating to the integrated military structure. Like the North Atlantic Council (NAC), the DPC looks to the senior committee with the relevant specific responsibility for the preparatory and follow-up work arising from its decisions. Within the International Staff, the DPC is principally supported by the Division of Defence Policy and Planning and the Operations Division.
The DPC meets when necessary at the level of Ambassadors and twice a year at the level of Ministers of Defence. It is chaired by the Secretary General of NATO.
