NATO next-generation ISR plans take shape
Using capabilities across all domains NATO hopes to get a much more complete and accurate ISR picture (Northrop Grumman)
NATO’s future surveillance capability is set to be radically different from its existing Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft.
The ageing 14 E-3A Sentry AWACS are set to be replaced by 2035 with a new system-of-systems that will include a mix of manned and unmanned airborne platforms networked with space, ground and maritime assets. These will be introduced under the Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) project.
Due to the complexity of AFSC, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has awarded three separate industry teams a €15.5 million ($17.08 million) contract each for the Risk Reduction and Feasibility Studies
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Baykar’s Akinci: Local participation and export freedom drive $4.63 billion success story
The success of the Akinci drone stems from Turkey’s push for domestically produced components – which has led to fewer export restrictions – and from manufacturer Baykar’s willingness to coproduce the drone with customers’ domestic industries.
-
Lithuania air focus: Majority of $235.98 million drone investment to be spent before 2030
Lithuania has committed significant funding towards expanding its UAV capabilities, with more than $54 million already spent and substantial additional investment planned through to 2029. Alongside domestic procurement, the country has also acquired various drones to support Ukraine.
-
Japan’s Terra Drone expands Ukrainian ties to break into global defence market
Following its investment into WinnyLab, Terra Drone unveiled a new long-range fixed-wing addition to its interceptor drone portfolio as it seeks to bring combat-proven technology back to Japan and expand into global export markets.
-
April air forces review: Next-gen platform push ties in with fleet modernisation plans
Countries releasing their spending budgets over the past month have placed an emphasis on advancing next-generation crewed programmes as well as upgrades and expansion plans for air combat and aerial refuelling capabilities.
-
What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?
With a pending NATO AWACS replacement on the horizon, the demand and market opportunities for airborne early warning aircraft remain strong as countries look to bolster their capabilities, with industry eyeing gaps in the market.