On the 22nd, the Portuguese Army and Armed Forces Chiefs of Staff spoke in Lisbon at a conference about national defense, organized by Diário de Notícias.
The chiefs made a few remarks about Portugal’s role inside NATO, namely some aspects about future commitments but also some reminders about worries from its partners.
The Armed Forces Chief of Staff, General Nunes da Fonseca, said that Portugal was behind schedule to meet its NATO targets and, stressed the fact that the alliance has been frequently reminding Portugal of this matter. He later added that Portugal is currently 16 years behind on meeting its NATO targets.
The Army Chief of Staff, General Mendes Ferrão, stressed 3 major goal points that Portugal must commit to the alliance in the coming 20 years.
In 6 years, the Portuguese Army will commit a full Brigade to NATO, in 2036 a 2nd Brigade is set to be ready for the needs of the alliance and lastly, after 20 years it will have to triple its sustainment and medical capabilities.
As for the exact force structure of such commitments, any details are currently unknown.
