NATO Allies Strengthen Protection of Allied Skies June 13, 2024 Brussels, Belgium – NATO Allies today announced a significant strengthening of their collective air defenses in response to the evolving threat environment. The decision, taken at a meeting of NATO Defense Ministers, will enhance the Alliance’s ability to protect its skies and deter potential adversaries. “Our skies are vital to the security of our nations,” said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. “This decision will significantly bolster our defenses and ensure that we can continue to provide effective protection of our populations and critical infrastructure.” The measures outlined in the decision include: * Increased investments in air defense systems: Allies will invest in the latest technologies to enhance their ability to detect, track, and intercept incoming threats. * Enhanced cooperation and coordination: Allies will strengthen their air surveillance and command and control networks to ensure seamless coordination between national air forces. * Establishment of a NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense System: A new system will be created to integrate the air defense capabilities of all NATO members, providing a comprehensive and layered defense against air and missile threats. The decision also includes plans to deploy additional NATO assets to Allied countries in the eastern part of the Alliance. This includes additional fighter jets, anti-aircraft missiles, and ground-based air defense systems. “The strengthening of our air defenses is a clear indication of NATO’s commitment to collective security,” said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. “We stand united in our determination to protect our skies and ensure the safety of our citizens.” The decision was welcomed by all NATO Allies, who recognized the importance of maintaining a strong and effective air defense capability in the face of evolving threats. The measures outlined in the decision will be implemented over the coming months and years, significantly enhancing the Alliance’s ability to protect its skies and deter potential adversaries.NATO Strengthens Flight Training and Airspace CooperationNATO Strengthens Flight Training and Airspace Cooperation On June 13, 2024, the Netherlands officially joined the NATO Flight Training Europe (NFTE) initiative, expanding the participant count to 13 nations. The NFTE aims to provide advanced pilot training across Europe in a cost-effective and standardized manner. By leveraging existing training facilities and investing in new ones, the initiative will offer training for various aircraft types, including fighters, helicopters, transport planes, and drones. The NFTE is implemented through the NATO Support and Acquisition Agency (NSPA) Support Partnership, one of the Alliance’s multinational High Visibility Projects (HVP). The addition of the Netherlands follows the recent expansion of the NFTE to 14 training campuses in seven participating countries. Around 50 pilot students have already been placed in four locations, granting allied aircrew access to cutting-edge training opportunities. In a separate development, Belgium and Spain signed the Letter of Intent on Cross-Border Cooperation in Airspace, adding to the 15 allied nations already involved in the initiative. This agreement enhances civil-military collaboration in airspace management, enabling NATO to use national airspace for exercises, training, and other air activities in various European regions. At the signing ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary-General Mircea Geoană emphasized the importance of collaborative training and exercises for NATO’s deterrence and defense posture. He stated that the projects would improve airspace safety and maintain pilot proficiency during all training stages. These initiatives demonstrate NATO’s commitment to strengthening its air capabilities and ensuring the interoperability of its member states in the face of evolving security challenges.NATO allies gathered in Brussels today to discuss measures to strengthen the protection of Allied skies. The meeting was held in response to the recent downing of a Russian fighter jet by a Turkish F-16. The allies agreed to increase the number of air patrols and to deploy additional aircraft to the region. They also discussed the possibility of establishing a no-fly zone over Ukraine. “We are determined to protect our airspace and to deter any aggression,” said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. “We will not tolerate violations of our sovereign territory.” The meeting was attended by representatives from all 30 NATO member states. The allies were united in their condemnation of Russia’s actions and in their commitment to defending NATO airspace. The decision to strengthen the protection of Allied skies is a significant step in NATO’s response to the growing threat from Russia. The allies are determined to send a clear message that they will not tolerate any violations of their airspace.