NATO Research and Development

The NATO Research and Development program, part of the Air Force's Advanced Component Development & Prototypes activity, focuses on enhancing international cooperative research and development efforts. It targets air, space, and cyber domains by engaging with NATO member states and other allied nations. The main goal is to improve U.S. and allied defense capabilities through advanced technologies and foster interoperability among coalition forces. Each project aligns with the Department of Defense's objectives, meeting criteria such as enhancing warfighter capabilities and increasing coalition interoperability.

A significant aspect of the program is establishing international agreements that comply with Title 10 U.S. Code, Section 2350a. These agreements facilitate collaboration in research areas like directed energy, hypersonics, autonomy, and information systems. The program aims to eliminate redundant R&D efforts while accelerating the availability of defense systems. By engaging in bilateral and multilateral agreements with countries such as Australia, Canada, Germany, India, and Israel, it seeks to access cutting-edge technologies and strengthen strategic partnerships.

For FY 2024 and FY 2025, the program will continue focusing on military satellite communications, cyber network defense, quantum communication, and space vehicles. New areas of interest include artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicles, collision avoidance systems, and compact high-power microwave technologies. These efforts aim to equip U.S. forces and their allies with advanced capabilities to address national security challenges effectively.

The NATO Cooperative R&D program also seeks to optimize resource utilization through cost-sharing arrangements with allied nations. Projects are chosen based on their alignment with Air Force goals and potential to demonstrate interoperability or commonality with allied forces. An essential requirement is that project offices match approved funding levels with contributions from allied partners. This collaborative approach enhances defense capabilities while fostering long-term partnerships with strategically important nations worldwide.