AFSOUTH (Allied Forces Southern Europe)

Allied Forces Southern Europe (AFSOUTH) was a NATO command responsible for military operations in Southern Europe, primarily during the Cold War. Established in the 1950s, its headquarters were in Naples, Italy. AFSOUTH coordinated the defense of NATO's southern flank against potential threats, particularly from the Soviet Union. The command worked to ensure military readiness, foster cooperation among member nations, and respond to crises in the Mediterranean region. With NATO's evolution, AFSOUTH transformed, but its legacy continues to influence regional security and military collaboration among allied countries.