Definition of Allied command operations

From 1951 SHAPE was the headquarters of operational forces in the European theatre (Allied Command Europe, ACE), but since 2003 SHAPE has been the headquarters of Allied Command Operations (ACO) controlling all allied operations worldwide. The former Allied Command Atlantic (ACLANT) headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia, was simultaneously converted into the headquarters for the new Allied Command Transformation (ACT) responsible for transformation and training of NATO forces. SHAPE retained its traditional name with reference to Europe although the geographical scope of its activities was extended in 2003. The commanding officer of Allied Command Operations has also retained the title "Supreme Allied Commander Europe" (SACEUR), and continues to be a U.S. four star general with the dual-hatted role of Commander, U.S. European Command. Airlift support for the travels of the SACEUR are provided by the 309th Airlift Squadron at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium.