Relatively little openly available analytical work on the EU Battlegroup concept has thus far been conducted. As the analytical deficit is gradually being filled, the concept and its different bi- and multilateral arrangements are racing ahead with unusual speed. The aim of this brief three-part study is threefold. Firstly, by analysing the "genesis" and the subsequent swift conceptual development of the Battlegroup concept, the issue is put into a wider context. Secondly, a short case study of the development of the Nordic Battlegroup gives a regional context and will hopefully provide a better understanding of the complexities of setting up a multinational high-readiness unit for peace-support and crisis management. In the third and final part of the study, some issues and problems pertaining to the further development of the concept and some other issues to the operations and possible effects on European security policy are discussed. Some alternative options on how to further develop the Battlegroup concept are then suggested in the final section of the study.