NATO will increase ground air defense 5 times: Europe prepares for new threat from Russia
3 June 21:24
NATO is calling on its member states in Europe to increase the number and capacity of ground-based air defense systems fivefold. This was announced on the eve of the key NATO defense ministers’ summit to be held on June 5 in Brussels, "Komersant Ukrainian" writes with reference to Bloomberg.
This decision is dictated by current security challenges, including the threat of a full-scale armed conflict with Russia.
Why this issue has become critical
Over the past decades, most European countries have been reducing their armed forces, including air defense systems, due to changing security priorities after the end of the Cold War. The focus has shifted to localized conflicts outside of Europe, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 demonstrated serious weaknesses in the defense system of European states.
NATO countries are now seeking not only to address these gaps, but also to radically change the security architecture on the continent. According to Bloomberg, a fivefold increase in ground-based air defense is currently being discussed, including medium- and long-range missile systems, short-range air defense systems, and modern drones to intercept air targets.
What exactly does NATO offer?
Specific figures – i.e., the number of additional air defense batteries, types of systems, procurement timelines, and sources of funding – are still being finalized. However, it is known that the countries will be involved in a joint initiative similar to the existing European Sky Shield Initiative project. This program brings together more than 20 countries for the joint procurement of Arrow 3, IRIS-T SLM, and US Patriot systems.
Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Romania, Lithuania, and others have already joined the initiative. It is expected that the summit will agree to expand the list of participants and approve an updated roadmap.
Russia’s reaction and potential consequences
Moscow has traditionally accused NATO of “escalating tensions,” but the Alliance emphasizes that it is exclusively about defense. NATO does not plan to deploy strike weapons near Russia’s borders, but clearly demonstrates its readiness to defend every square meter of its member states’ territory.
Nevertheless, it is expected that in 2025-2026 most NATO countries will begin to massively upgrade their air defense systems. This will include both the modernization of existing weapons and the purchase of new systems. The priority will be to protect critical infrastructure, airports, government facilities, and logistics centers.
The fivefold increase in air defense is not just a technical upgrade, but a strategic shift in Europe’s defense policy. After a long period of inactivity in the field of ground defense, NATO is taking a serious step to counter the threats of the 21st century. This will be a crucial step in strengthening the security of the European continent for many years to come.
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