Interoperability and Cooperation Command (ICC)
The Interoperability and Cooperation Command (ICC) is the military authority responsible for enabling, developing and ensuring the interoperability of the Swiss Armed Forces. It ensures that the Swiss Armed Forces can successfully carry out national missions and international operations. The ICC strengthens the armed forces' capacity to act, responsiveness and operational readiness by aligning itself with international procedures, providing targeted training and integrating technologies.
The main task of ICC is to develop and ensure the armed forces' ability to cooperate at all levels. It supports national missions as well as bilateral, multinational and multilateral engagements in the context of peace promotion and cooperation. In order to ensure mental and procedural interoperability in accordance with AJP-01 (Allied Joint Doctrine), ICC promotes training in international procedures, language and staff work.
ICC also promotes the further development of interoperability by participating in international programmes and working groups. A central component is the establishment of the International NCO Academy (INCOA) as a European centre for the training and promotion of the NCO corps in a multilateral context.
The basic principles of the ICC are as follows:
- Competence model and training: It developped and implements a multi-level competence model for interoperability based on international standards.
- Cooperation and networking: Cooperation with multilateral and bilateral partners in training, exercises and research is being expanded and deepened.
- Standardisation and innovation: The ICC is actively involved in the development and application of international norms and standards.
- Communication and positioning: It promotes an open and cooperation-oriented attitude among all members of the armed forces.
The ICC is based on a multi-level competency model ranging from “non-interoperable” to “fully integrated”. This model serves as a framework for training and development to ensure cooperation in an international context at all levels.
If you would like further information or wish to contact ICC, please send an email to the following address: icc@vtg.admin.ch
International Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (INCOA)
INCOA, the Swiss Armed Forces' first multinational structure, is establishing itself as a new benchmark for Switzerland's international cooperation with NATO, its member nations, and its partners. It is fully dedicated to the professional development of NCO corps in Europe. It consists of two main components: a research institute and an education department.