Allied Command Transformation’s (ACT) Layered Counter-UAS Initiative (LCI-X) is a series of threat-informed events to test and integrate counter-UAS solutions to reinforce NATO’s Eastern Flank. These events ensure that Allied counter-UAS solutions are interoperable, rapid and threat-based across the Alliance. This accelerated innovation—from concept to operational capability—demonstrates ACT’s ability to support operations and enhanced Vigilance Activity Eastern Sentry. LCI-X is also a tangible demonstration of NATO’s ability to absorb and apply lessons from the war in Ukraine.
Interoperability-Focused Solutions: Interoperability and integration amongst Allied forces is a key theme to LCI-X. LCI-X provides a structured environment for NATO, Allies and industry to test, refine and connect counter-UAS solutions before they are fielded at scale. Rigorous experimentation—enabled by realistic ACT-led testing environments—advances interoperability between counter-UAS sensors, effectors and command-and-control elements as well as between National and NATO systems. Using validated NATO and National air and missile defence as building blocks, Allies can create an interoperable, layered defensive shield along the Eastern Flank.
Rapid Adoption: LCI-X is showcasing NATO’s speed and agility in implementing emerging and disruptive technologies. The Initiative works in short three-month cycles that scan, test and recommend rapid adoption of new counter-UAS capabilities. This tempo ensures that NATO’s counter-UAS solutions are constantly evolving to meet the current threat and available to shape the future fight. This empowers NATO and Allies to be postured, trained and equipped for coordinated, 360-degree defence of sovereign territory. ACT is also working closely with the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) and NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) to infuse disruptive technologies into LCI-X and accelerate counter-UAS innovation into the cycles.
Threat-Based Testing Environments: NATO and Allies are learning from Ukraine’s experience countering Russian UAS attacks through the Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) in Poland. Together with JATEC, ACT provides an operational experimentation environment with real-world threat presentations for Nations and industry to test counter-UAS solutions while accelerating NATO integration. This ensures NATO’s counter-UAS solutions can defeat evolving battlefield threats. In April 2026, Romania hosted the first LCI-X testing event, providing Allies and industry with an opportunity to validate their counter-UAS technology against ACT-controlled UAS mimicking Russian tactics and equipment. This event helped guide NATO and Allied efforts to develop counter-UAS systems and tactics. Further events will expand coordination and connectivity across NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence, building on previous activities to ensure scalable, interoperable defence.
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