An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir January / February 2026 www.military.ie/magazine Reframing the NCO: From Tactical Executor to Strategic Advisor Traditionally, NCOs have been viewed as the backbone of military operations, responsible for discipline, cohesion, and tactical execution. Yet the contemporary European security environment demands a recalibration of this role. Hybrid threats, combining cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and irregular warfare blur the lines between peace and conflict. Energy security, migration pressures, and the weaponisation of information further complicate the strategic landscape. Against this backdrop, SNCOs are increasingly expected to act as strategic advisors, bridging the gap between commanders and the rank‑and‑file. They must shape institutional culture, contribute to policy implementation, and foster interoperability across multinational forces. The CSELC embodies this transformation, equipping enlisted leaders with the intellectual tools to "speak, plan, and act together" at operational and strategic levels. Strategic Purpose and Vision The CSELC is tailored to enable CSEL's to advise senior commanders effectively. In an era marked by Russian assertiveness, grey-zone tactics, and shifting geopolitical fault lines, particularly in the Baltic Sea region, the role of senior enlisted leaders has expanded beyond traditional domains. By honing strategic thinking, communication and leadership skills the course ensures SNCO's can advise commanders and also lead across a range of scenarios, from military conflict to peacebuilding operations and interagency coordination. Brigadier General Alvydas Šiuparis, Commandant of BALTDEFCOL, emphasised during the 2025 welcome ceremony that the course is not merely an academic exercise but a strategic investment in the human dimension of defence leadership. His remarks underscored the importance of cultivating a shared understanding of regional security challenges and empowering enlisted leaders to serve as strategic enablers within their respective defence establishments. Educational Philosophy and Learning Environment BALTDEFCOL's educational philosophy emphasises critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and practical application. The faculty comprises experienced military officers and civilian academics from across NATO and EU member states, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive approach. The learning environment is deliberately inclusive and respectful, fostering open dialogue and cultural sensitivity. In a multinational setting, this ethos is essential for building trust and cohesion. Participants are encouraged to challenge assumptions, debate strategic concepts, and apply lessons to real-world scenarios. Course Structure and Curriculum The 2025 CSELC unfolded across four modules over three months: Module 1: Online Foundation Delivered virtually, this phase established a common academic baseline. Topics included Baltic regional security, global trends, academic writing, and critical thinking. Module 2: Strategic Leadership Conducted in BALTDEFCOL Tartu, Estonia, this module explored strategic leadership principles, decision-making, and the advisory role of CSELs. A highlight was a field trip to Finland to study its comprehensive security model where Finnish defence leaders discussed their integration of civilian and military resources in a hybrid threat environment. Module 3: National and International Security This phase examined NATO and EU defence 8 | RSM Paul Tuite presenting his Argumentive Essay titled "The transformation of The Irish Air Corps into the Irish Air Force. A Name change or a robust strategic change? " to a panel MSG Enrio Annus, Finnish Defence Forces and Class Leader CSELC 2025, presenting "The Foundation of Will to Defend and Fight."

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