The conference aims to capitalize on NATO, national innovation and engagement activities, in order to strengthen ties between NATO Allies and Partners. Space, an operational domain for NATO since 2019, is essential for deterrence and defence. The inaugural conference was held in 2023 with the focus topics of Space capability and capacity through collaboration and cooperation. This year the focus of the conference is: Space Security and Space Warfare.
“The second NATO Space Operations Commanders’ Conference signifies the commitment from NATO Allies and Partners in developing the Space domain,” said General James Hecker, Commander Allied Air Command and Combined Force Space Component. “We need to continue to enhance the Space domain through collaboration, cooperation and information exchange,” he added.
The NATO Space Operations Centre, part of the Combined Force Space Component Command is located at Allied Air Command and is staffed with a multinational team of military personnel and civilian experts.
The Space centre works closely with the National space operations centres, agencies and organisations, appropriately sharing data, products and services to support the timely decision-making of Commanders across all domains. Illustration by Arnaud Chamberlin
“Rapid evolution in Space capabilities and technology impose risks for the Alliance but also create new opportunities”, said Colonel John Patrick, Chief of Staff for NATO’s Combined Force Space Component Command. Photo by: Arnaud Chamberlin
“Rapid evolution in Space capabilities and technology impose risks for the Alliance but also create new opportunities”, said Colonel John Patrick, Chief of Staff for NATO’s Combined Force Space Component Command. Adding, “Over 100 participants are attending this year’s conference which provides a platform for Allies, Partners and stakeholders to exchange dialogue on important issues such as the Space Threat Environment, Security and Policy”.
The Centre is designed to coordinate Allied Space activities, support NATO missions and operations from Space, and protect Allied Space systems by sharing information about potential threats. The Space centre works closely with the National space operations centres, agencies and organisations, appropriately sharing data, products and services to support the timely decision-making of Commanders across all domains.
The close coordination of Allied Space activities supports NATO missions ensuring that NATO can rapidly respond to any current or emerging threat, whilst continuing to promote regional security and stability.