COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – NATO Allied Command Transformation hosted the annual NATO Multi-Domain Operations Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, from October 9th to 11th, 2023 which delved into critical themes that underscored the significance of Multi-Domain Operations in today’s complex security environment.
In the broadest sense, NATO’s concept for Multi-Domain Operations reflects the commitment member nations have to ensure the Alliance can combat future wars by collaboratively developing solutions to help solve complex military challenges. The greatest benefit will come from being able to orchestrate combinations of activities across all five operational domains (Air, Land, Maritime, Space and Cyber). When nations can synchronize both Military Instruments of Power (the armed forces, equipment, training, and capabilities) and non-military actors (international organizations, non-governmental organizations, etc…), more effective outcomes can be achieved across the physical, virtual and cognitive dimensions.
The theme of this year’s conference was “The Role of Nations in Building a Multi-Domain Operations enabled Alliance”. Sessions emphasized the importance of embracing a cultural change within NATO in order to fully exploit the benefits of such an interconnected approach. Military decision-makers must orchestrate the utility, availability and access of capabilities across operational domains to achieve targeted results. This necessitates a shift in mindset and a commitment to education and training to ensure that all Alliance military staff can think, understand and operate in a multi-domain environment.
The role of data and cyberspace in enabling Multi-Domain Operations was also a focal point. In an age of ubiquitous data, interconnectivity across all NATO member nations is essential. Cyberspace serves as the connective tissue, enabling multi-domain decision-making and activity. Digital transformation efforts therefore become fundamental to NATO’s broader transformation into a Multi-Domain Operations-enabled Alliance, enhancing its ability to adapt and respond effectively to evolving threats.
Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, General Philippe Lavigne, opened the conference by sharing that “Multi-Domain Operations is NATO’s strategic priority, a game changer for our strategic advantage. We’re transitioning from joint to multi-domain with a bold vision captured in a ground-breaking concept. NATO Allied Command Transformation is leading the team, ensuring our future fight depends on this vital work.”
NATO’s dedication to fostering innovation and modernization across all operational domains was also discussed during the conference. For example, exercises and war games provide valuable opportunities to experiment with new technologies and procedures, ensuring that NATO maintains its technological edge and remains adaptable in the face of emerging threats.
Standardization and interoperability were also emphasized as critical components of Allied strength. The ability of NATO’s member nations to operate together using common systems and doctrine is vital for deterrence and defence. Multi-Domain Operations, in particular, place greater demands on interoperability, requiring forces from all Allies, including those without Space and Cyberspace capabilities, to operate effectively within this multi-national architecture.
The 2023 NATO Multi-Domain Operations Conference served as a forum for developing understanding and a commitment to Multi-Domain Operations as a cornerstone of NATO’s security posture. By discussing these key themes, NATO continues to evolve and adapt to meet the challenges of an ever-changing security landscape, ensuring the collective security of its member nations.
