Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is the multinational military alliance command center located in Casteau, Belgium. It serves as the highest military authority within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and functions as the central hub for planning and coordinating the collective defense efforts of its member states.
With a presence since 1967, SHAPE is responsible for maintaining an overall strategic vision for NATO activities in the European region. It exercises command and control over all operational forces assigned to it and directs military operations in times of crisis or conflict. As the supreme military headquarters, SHAPE oversees planning, intelligence analysis, and decision-making processes to ensure the effectiveness of NATO's military mission.
SHAPE plays a vital role in maintaining and enhancing the security and stability of its member nations. It acts as a central point for coordination and cooperation between the military authorities of NATO member states and facilitates the exchange of information, doctrines, and strategies that contribute to the collective defense and deterrence of the alliance.
Under the leadership of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), SHAPE serves as the key link between the political and military dimensions of NATO. It provides comprehensive military advice to the North Atlantic Council and ensures the successful implementation of NATO's military objectives.
In summary, SHAPE is the supreme military command center of NATO in Europe, responsible for planning, coordination, and direction of military operations and strategies to safeguard the security and interests of its member states in the Euro-Atlantic region.
