This new capability is funded by the NATO Security Investment Programme, the long-term investment programme supported by funding from all NATO Nations.
Building this new network will require installation of new equipment at 50 sites across the Alliance. Equipment was installed at the first six sites from April to June 2021, in Belgium, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
"This is an important step for NATO, not only at a technical level, but at the operational level," said Pablo Moreno, Senior Project Manager at the NCI Agency. "The new network is more flexible, with an increased quality of service and the ability to share more detailed information than on the current network."
The new equipment will first run in parallel with the current recognized air picture exchange. Once installation at all sites is complete, the current capability will be replaced completely.
"Through this project we aim to support the Strategic Commands' long-term vision for NATO's recognized air picture, which is essential to NATO's air policing mission," Moreno said.