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No definition of light footprint operations has been proposed

• Given that there is no definition of a light footprint operation in EU doctrine despite a number of EU missions having its characteristics, the study proposed a new definition that has been developed to be consistent with existing related EU policies and doctrines.

Current medical support practices to operations are varied

• Case studies showed that while there are standard operating procedures, agreement and doctrinal requirements of medical capabilities in place, each national medical treatment facility or element works to its own national clinical standard.

European medical support capabilities differ depending on country priorities

• Findings from the survey on the medical capabilities of the European Defence Agency's participating member states showed that the more complex or advanced the medical capabilities were the more likely the gaps at European level.

European countries are interested in standardisation and harmonisation among their militaries and with civilian sector

• While different cultures and expectations exist within Europe with regards to medical support, overall the development of common standards was seen positively.

New technologies can improve resilience of soldiers and enhance medical support for LFOs

• While technology may assist in improving medical support in LFOs, further development and monitoring is required to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose and that possible concerns are answered.

Medical support options have been developed and their feasibility assessed

• Medical support feasibility assessment was carried out for four different LFO scenarios and options for the lowest possible capacity that can be generated for LFOS were developed.