Since 2022, NATO Allied Command Transformation works with the Latvian Ministry of Defence in Latvia to conduct a field-based operational demonstration, test and experimentation event called Digital Backbone Experimentation (DiBaX).
Digital Backbone, cloud and data-centric solutions, and artificial intelligence technologies are operated in field-like conditions together with operational military users, industry and academia to provide solution improvements, interoperability proposals, requirements, and ready solutions. ACT efforts support the adoption of emerging and disruptive technology to improve readiness and communications between military commanders, operational elements, and supporting personnel.
DiBaX strategically focuses on the use of unmanned vehicles in contested environments and the application of artificial intelligence in detection and decision-making tasks.
The development of NATO’s ability to conduct Multi-Domain Operations remains one of NATO’s top priorities. DiBaX is part of a continuum of experimentation events that support the deployment of NATO common-funded capabilities and help the Alliance maintain its technological edge. DiBaX will evolve to address the changing needs of NATO operational units, lessons learned from conflict, and interoperability specifications. The experiment’s design and execution in Latvia provide an operationally relevant and compelling event each year.
The digital backbone is a vital component of NATO’s infrastructure, enabling connectivity for complex Multi-Domain Operations. During the DiBaX events, the latest technological advancements are demonstrated and assessed for integration into real-world environments to enhance interoperability and efficiency among Allied Forces.
As NATO meets the evolving challenges of a dynamic security environment, DiBaX stands out as a model for how operationally grounded experimentation can drive meaningful technological progress. The enduring partnership with Latvia and Latvian Mobile Telephone reflects a broader commitment to collaboration, innovation, and readiness. With its focus on real-world application, soldier-centric design, and multinational integration, DiBaX will not only test the digital backbone, it will help shape the future of NATO’s operational effectiveness.
High-level DiBaX priorities
- DiBaX 2026 prioritises secure, interoperable, open, resilient, low-latency next-generation networks that strengthen NATO’s Digital Backbone to enable effective multi-domain operations.
- Decision Advantage: DiBaX 2026 advances secure data-centric decision-making in a mission networking environment by integrating AI-enabled capabilities across communications, decision support, and operational applications.
- DiBaX 2026 is the experimentation venue to host and mature the Beacon projects Layered Counter-UAS (LCI‑X) and Next Generation Targeting (NGT), bringing together lower-TRL research and state-of-the-art developments through to more mature, fieldable systems for testing in realistic conditions.
Network Focus Areas of DiBaX 2026
- Flexible Deployment of the Digital Backbone to Rapidly Provide Services Across Diverse Operational Conditions.
- Sustained Resilience of the Digital Backbone Against Multi-Domain Threats.
- Leverage Integrated Elements of the Digital Backbone to Enhance Situational Awareness and Accelerate Decision Making.
- NATO CIS Forces Operate and Maintain the Digital Backbone.
RIGA, Latvia. NATO concluded its largest research and testing event for new defence technologies to date, the Digital Backbone Experiment known as DiBaX. Activities ran at the Ādaži Military Base and virtually across several Allied nations.
This year placed special attention on uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed aerial vehicle scenarios operating in complex environments. Teams also explored the use of artificial intelligence for target identification and for improving situational awareness.
Purpose and Vision
DiBaX is a pioneering NATO effort designed to improve interoperability across domains through advanced communications. The experiment advances the Alliance’s digital backbone using fifth generation cellular networks and satellite links.
The project also reflects a wider commitment to sustainable defence. Work strands aligned with NATO’s Operational Energy Concept, with industry and nations collaborating to identify solutions that reduce energy burden while improving military effect.
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RIGA, LATVIA. From October 21st to November 1st, NATO Allied Command Transformation and the Latvian Ministry of Defence conducted the “Digital Backbone Experimentation 2024”, in short DiBaX, to demonstrate the use of technologies that can enable Multi-Domain Operations within the Alliance.
The Digital Backbone Experimentation is a pioneering NATO experiment aimed at enhancing interoperability across domains through cutting-edge 5G and satellite communication technologies. The project reflects NATO’s commitment to strengthening defence capabilities in an interconnected world.
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RIGA, LATVIA. From October 23rd to October 27th, NATO Allied Command Transformation and the Latvian Ministry of Defence led the “2023 Next Generation Communication Networks Technology Event” to demonstrate the use of technologies that can enable Multi-Domain Operations within the Alliance.
Defence capabilities are increasingly enhanced by technological advancements like Next Generation Communications Networks. With the world’s transition to 5G, also known as the fifth generation of telecommunication technologies, NATO Allied Command Transformation is constantly developing new capabilities to contribute to the Military Instrument of Power. Other advanced communication technologies, such as low earth orbiting satellites, have a direct and far-reaching influence on global defence and security.
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The Next Generation Communications Network Event provided a tremendous opportunity for validation and exploration of innovative solutions; the results of the experiments conducted will be used to inform development and operationalization of Digital Transformation and Multi-Domain Operations related concepts and capabilities. Equally important was developing the human expertise and networking which provide the foundations for accelerating development in Next Generation Communications Technologies for the Alliance.