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RAMSTEIN, Germany - Space specialists from across the NATO Alliance have been working 24/7 to provide space support and expertise for Allied Air Command’s computer assisted exercise Ramstein Ambition 21.

The two week exercise aims to train Allied personnel in planning a large joint operation to defend NATO territory. Enabling the exercise, the NATO Space Centre has been a key part of the exercise, coordinating with member States to maximize available space services and products. 

Space situational awareness offers benefits to commanders in all operational domains. That is why improving our procedures and processes to operate effectively with the NATO Space Centre was a key exercise objective

NATO Space Centre Director, Lieutenant Colonel John Patrick, said that space threats are increasing and could be hugely disruptive. “NATO is identifying a wide range of threats to the freedom of access and use of space by all Allies,” he added. “There are numerous malign actors who could disrupt satellite services, interfering with the daily use of our banking systems and mobile phone systems, as well as affecting military networks. It’s vital that we train to defend against these threats,” Lieutenant Colonel Patrick concluded.

Depiction of satellites in low-earth orbit or LEO; every single object is tracked by radar. Photo courtesy Leolab

Two-dimensional depiction of simulated opposing force satellite orbits. Photo based on screenshot from space tracking app

Three-dimensional tracking of simulated opposing force satellites and their coverage areas. Photo based on screenshot from AGI.

Based on potential threats and the space capabilities of Allied nations, the exercise realistically tests the ability to coordinate with nations to ensure NATO remains positioned to provide Commanders with Space services. The use of satellites increases situational awareness for NATO and is critical during any crisis or conflict.

“The importance of space to air, land and sea operations cannot be overstated. Space situational awareness offers benefits to commanders in all of these domains. That is why improving our procedures and processes to operate effectively with the NATO Space Centre was a key exercise objective.” said Brigadier General Ertunç Ertufanlı, Exercise Director and Deputy Chief of Staff Plans at Allied Air Command.