For almost half a century, NATO member nations have come together not only on the fields of military cooperation but also over the 64 squares of the chessboard. The NATO Chess Championship, first held in 1989 in Hammelburg (Germany), has since become a unique tradition combining strategy, culture, and camaraderie among soldiers and civilian defence personnel of the Alliance.
The newly published volume “History of NATO Chess” is the first comprehensive account of this remarkable journey. Edited by Lt. Col. (ret.) Witold Sarnowski and Col. Sławomir Kędzierski, with contributions from authors representing many NATO countries, the book traces the origins of the International Military Chess Committee (IMCC), national stories, memorable championships, and outstanding players.
The publication has been prepared on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of the Polish Air Force University (Szkoła Orląt) and issued by the Publishing House of Polish Air Force University. It is not only a chronicle of tournaments but also a testimony to how chess – the royal game – strengthens friendships, builds mutual understanding, and reflects the values of teamwork, discipline, and fair play which are central to NATO.
📖 Download the book
- Download full publication (PDF, ~5.2 MB)
- ISBN 978-83-66514-97-3
- Publishing House of Polish Air Force University, Dęblin 2025