During the NATO evaluation process for so called "Full operational Capability" (FOC), Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast (MNC NE) has identified the need for an increase of its staff by the 38 servicemen. In order to source those additional slots a number of other NATO nations have joined MNC NE – Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia Lithuania and Slovakia. Similarly, the United States of America has responded positively as well two American staff officers will soon reinforce the MNC NE peacetime establishment.
As a follow on step in the process of arranging and establishing all necessary facilities for the new – coming American officers, a special U.S. reconnaissance team was sent to Szczecin again. The reconnaissance group consisted of representatives of the U. S. Army of NATO (USANATO) from Brussels, U. S. Army Europe (USAREUR) from Heidelberg, the Installation Management Agency - Europe (IMA-E) and representatives from other units responsible for management and support. During the three – days stay (24th - 26th August, 2005) in Szczecin, they visited and evaluated apart from the Headquarters especially: the housing areas in Szczecin, local banks to determine the service condition, medical services available for the Baltic Barracks’ servicemen, fitness facilities and also met with the Head of Szczecin International School (SIS). Finally they visited Szczecin International Airport and meet with the administrators and security personnel to discuss isues such as mail services and custom regulations. Another important part of that visit was a debate between the visiting US team and the Headquarters’ legal advisers in which issues such as legal aspects i.e. taxes and visas were touched .
