NATO Defense College recognizes four Hungarian military leaders
Text: defence.hu | Photo: archives, ndc.nato.int | 15:44 May 20, 2026The NATO Defense College (NDC) has awarded General Dr. Gábor Böröndi, Chief of HDF Defence Staff a Distinguished Ancien diploma. Apart from him, the diploma for an outstanding professional career path was also awarded to General Ferenc Korom, Hungary’s ambassador accredited to Quatar; Major General László Domján, chief ministerial advisor; and also to Brigadier General Dr. Pál Kádár, the advisor of the National Security Bureau of the Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister.
This year, altogether 15 persons, among them the four Hungarian military leaders, received the Distinguished Ancien diploma from among the former NDC students. The list of the awardees’ names was announced at the annual Anciens’ Conference and Seminar held at the NDC in Rome between 13 and 15 May.
Already organized for the 72nd time, the conference and seminar enabled the Anciens’ community to remain informed about the latest developments within the NDC, provided them with the opportunity to maintain and strengthen meaningful professional connections and friendships and to attend professional seminars together with freshly graduated students.
In his opening remarks, NDC Commandant Lieutenant General Max Nielsen stressed the vital importance of preserving unity in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing strategic environment. He also reiterated the NDC’s central role in fostering cohesion, mutual understanding and interoperability among Allies and Partners.
During the program, the topics included, for example, the 5-percent defence spending commitment in support of NATO’s capability requirements across domains. Discussions highlighted the changing character of modern warfare and the increasing relevance of distinct operational domains in theatres of war.
Having graduated from a six-month Senior Course of the NDC, all students become members of the Anciens’ community. The Distinguished Ancien diploma goes to those students who have reached especially high-ranking positions or provided significant service to the Alliance or the NDC during their career. The diploma is awarded by the President of the NDC Association of Anciens.
