NATO to Increase Weapons Stockpiles on Eastern Flank and Deploy Combat Robots 0 13

The aim of these measures is to enhance deterrence against Russia. In accordance with the new multi-layered defense concept, NATO will seek to slow down or stop the aggressor at an early stage using high-tech systems.

Along the alliance's borders with Russia and Belarus, a zone is planned that will largely rely on surveillance, as well as remotely controlled or semi-autonomous systems that the adversary will have to overcome before advancing further.

According to Lowin, the foundation of surveillance on the eastern flank will be systems that collect data on the ground, in the air, in space, and in the digital realm. This information will be available to NATO allies in real-time. In addition to data from satellites, drones, and reconnaissance aircraft, stationary and mobile systems such as radars, acoustic, and optical sensors will be utilized.

Directly along the borders, a so-called hot zone is planned to stop or slow down the adversary at an early stage. It involves the use of armed drones, partially autonomous combat vehicles, robotic systems, and automated air defense means. The systems will be interconnected to quickly ensure resistance against the adversary, limit its capabilities, and reduce combat effectiveness and initiative. However, decisions regarding the use of force will always remain with humans.

As Brigadier General pointed out, NATO is already deploying military equipment, but now much larger stockpiles will be created in the states on the alliance's border - both for automated systems and for alliance forces.

Despite the increase in automation, troop numbers will not decrease, as unmanned systems alone are insufficient for long-term deterrence or stopping the adversary, noted a senior NATO official.