The live-fire training was conducted from two ranges, with over 100 targets including ballistic missiles threats, supersonic and subsonic missile threats, and unmanned aircraft systems threats, providing a realistic scenario for NATO Allies and Partners to cooperate in an integrated air and missile defence environment using NATO command and control structures.
The NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) played a key role ensuring seamless end-to-end integration between all units and participants. NCIA’s experts enabled national systems and networks to securely connect to NATO’s operational network, allowing participants to communicate and coordinate in real time throughout the exercise. In addition, NCIA’s BMD specialists provided integration and testing expertise, enabling robust communication services and tactical data link support.
"Through unwavering commitment to technical excellence and security accreditation, the continued participation of NCIA in Exercise Formidable Shield strengthens interoperability with national and NATO operators,” stated Richard Mulqueen, Systems Engineer at NCIA Air Command and Control Centre. “Together, we ensure resilient defence, advanced strategic capabilities, and a safeguarded global security."
Formidable Shield 25 once again successfully demonstrates the interoperable strength of NATO. NCIA’s support and efforts allow far-reaching participation from across the Alliance, empowering Allied live-fire training.
“The efforts of NCIA help to link the priorities of the Maritime Missile Defence Forum (MTMD-F) directly with warfighter challenges in interoperability,” said Captain Michael S. Dwan, Commander Task Force SIX FOUR. “NCIA affords us the ability to study where we can do better between operator, system, sensor, and weapon and essentially improve our collective aim with heightened accuracy.”