NATO is shifting from air policing to a new ‘360-degree’ defense as drone and missile threats grow, official says
NATO's new approach to its air defense operations comes amid a sharp rise in Russian drone incursions into allied airspace this year.
The NATO alliance is transitioning its air defense strategy from traditional air policing missions to a more comprehensive, 360-degree approach. This shift comes as a growing number of violations of NATO airspace have been observed, particularly due to Russian drone incursions. The new strategy aims to protect NATO from threats across all domains, including crewed aircraft, drones, and cruise and ballistic missiles.
The integration of quick reaction alert fighter jets, surface-based air defense systems, counter-drone equipment, and advanced sensors will enable NATO to address a range of potential threats more effectively. The change in approach began about a year ago, following a significant increase in unauthorized drone incursions throughout NATO airspace, with a notable rise in the Baltic states, Finland, and Romania.
These incidents have prompted NATO to scramble fighter jets and reinforce its defense capabilities along Russia's borders. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has expressed concern over the growing number of incidents, stating that Russia has become increasingly reckless in its actions.
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