U.S. Army Leads European Air and Missile Defence Talks Amid Rising Threats
In an era of evolving security challenges, military leaders and air defence experts from over 15 NATO countries and partner nations convened in southern Germany from February 19-21 for the European Integrated Air and Missile Defence (EIAMD) Symposium. Hosted by the 10th Army Air and Missile Defence Command (10th AAMDC), the event focused on bolstering Europe’s defence against modern aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and hypersonic weapons.
Brig. Gen. Curtis W. King, commanding general of the 10th AAMDC, stressed the urgency of strengthening multinational cooperation. “As we face increasingly complex security challenges, the need for collaboration and innovation in our defence strategies has never been more critical,” he said.
The symposium was more than just a series of discussions—it was a platform for military experts to refine strategies for integrated air and missile defence (IAMD). Representatives from U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa (USAFE), U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF), Allied Land Command (LANDCOM), and Allied Air Command (AIRCOM) participated, sharing insights on data integration, command structures, and real-time response mechanisms.
Enhancing NATO’s Air Defence Capabilities
Over the three-day event, leaders addressed operational challenges, capability gaps, and future initiatives to improve NATO’s air defence framework. A key focus was the need for real-time data sharing among allies to create a seamless, layered defence network. As hypersonic weapons and drone swarms become more prevalent, experts emphasized the necessity of fast decision-making and automated response systems.
Sgt. Maj. John O’Connor of the 10th AAMDC highlighted NATO’s need for enhanced synchronization, stating, “We cannot afford to operate in silos. Our adversaries are adapting and changing, and so should we.”
A significant portion of the discussions revolved around lessons learned from the Ukraine war, where adversaries are using mass drone attacks and new missile tactics to challenge air defence systems. Solutions such as acoustic sensors, artificial intelligence-driven threat detection, and mobile fire teams were explored as potential countermeasures.
Stronger Collaboration for a Unified Defence
Beyond technical improvements, the symposium reinforced the importance of coordinated NATO partnerships. “We need to know each other before we need each other,” said U.S. Army Col. Ro Clemente, stressing the importance of personal and professional relationships in strengthening defence cooperation.
The 10th AAMDC remains at the forefront of Europe’s air and missile defence, working with NATO allies to refine both technical interoperability and strategic readiness. With a rising spectrum of threats in the region, continuous collaboration, innovation, and investment in IAMD remain vital to ensuring Europe’s security.
As NATO enhances its deterrence posture, the U.S. Army and its allies are committed to building a resilient air and missile defence network, ready to counter any emerging threats.
