NATO to set space capability targets from 2027

NATO will set specific space capability targets to help the alliance collectively deter and defend against threats, NATO’s Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Sir Johnny Stringer, announced to DSEI Gateway and other media.

The “long overdue” targets will be set through the NATO Defence Planning Process (NDPP), he said at the 2026 Space Power Conference in London on 23 September.

What is NDPP?

NDPP is a process that identifies required capabilities, encouraging and regularly assessing their development and acquisition to member states.

“Allies are committed to ensuring that their national development plans support the implementation of capabilities, and especially those asked for by the NDPP,” NATO said.

Next steps

According to ACM Stringer, the target setting process will begin with new political guidance, due to be "released in February 2027.”

Political guidance is the first step in the NDPP process, which defines the overall aims and objectives the alliance must meet.

ACM Stringer described this as the "first time" NATO would set such targets, but did not specify which capabilities they would cover.

So far, according to a senior Allied Command Transformation official two years ago, the NDPP has not set clear assigned quantitative space capability targets to member states. Efforts, the official continued, were therefore underway to identify what capabilities each nation could bring to the alliance.

ACM Stringer also welcomed the launch of the UK Space Command’s new No. III Space Effects Squadron, which was announced at the conference. The squadron is designed to defend the UK’s assets through offensive and defensive measures.