[1] That use of the building started after the establishment of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP), the precursor of the Common Security and Defence Policy, in the early 2000s under the auspices of High Representative Javier Solana, who stated on several occasions the need to build a "strong in-house strategic culture".

Entrance of modest size between two colossal stainless steel columns rising to the full height of the building and appearing to cross the granite blocks.

The interior consists of modest offices around central corridors and an indoor garden.

Part of the European External Action Service (EEAS): CSDP agencies outside the EEAS: The MPCC, the JSCC and the CPCC together form the permanent military and civilian strategic level facilities in the EU command-and-control structure.

The EU command and control (C2) structure is directed by political bodies composed of member states' representatives, and generally requires unanimous decisions.