In this article, discover the key outcomes of the NATO Lessons Learned Spring Week, held from 25 to 27 March. This event brought together representatives from NATO HQ, the NATO Command Structure, Allied Command Operations and Allied Command Transformation, to discuss various topics such as the NATO Lessons Learned Capability Improvement Roadmap 2021-2025, the updates on ongoing projects, in order to shape the JALLC Programme of Work 2026 and the strategies to enhance the NATO Lessons Learned Capability. 

From 25 to 27 March, the JALLC hosted the annual NATO Lessons Learned (LL) Spring Week. This biannual event (with an edition held in the Fall), is conducted in person and chaired by Allied Command Transformation (ACT). It serves as a discussion forum for the Lessons Learned Community, the NATO Lessons Learned Working Group and the Allied Command Operations (ACO) Coordination Group. Over three intensive days, representatives from NATO HQ, the NATO Command Structure, ACO, and ACT, engaged in in-depth discussions, presentations, and collaborative exchanges to foster the NATO Lessons Learned Capability. 

The Spring Week allowed participants from across NATO entities to get an update on the NATO Lessons Learned Portal as well the plans for the new Tool Set. Participants also heard about 2024 LL key issues and trends as well; as LL related innovation efforts.  

The event also addressed several key areas, including the status and the way ahead of the Lessons Learned Capability Improvement Roadmap, an update on the LL training and outreach plan for 2026, and the revision of some key Lessons Learned documents in NATO. 

Participants also explored challenges and opportunities to improve the collection, delivery, and exploitation of Lessons Learned across NATO. Emphasis was placed on how these processes could be reinvigorated to better serve NATO’s mission and adapt to emerging challenges in a rapidly evolving security landscape. These and other issues will be included in the upcoming new National Lessons Learned Leadership Meeting to be held in October in Estonia. 

An important aspect of this event was the opportunity it provided for stakeholders from NATO’s two strategic commands, as well as representatives from other NATO entities, to maintain a robust network of LL practitioners.  

The JALLC remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing NATO’s Lessons Learned Capability, and ensuring that the Alliance continues to learn, adapt, and succeed in its missions.