Command & control On the modern
battlefield, a multitude of near-real-time data is fed back to operational commanders.
11% IISS 18
The percentage increase of total Nato defence spending in 2024, compared to 3% in 2023.
implementations and building trust in new capabilities. Time is always required for cultural change in organisations.” This cultural change, it goes without saying, is critical for ensuring that military personnel at all levels are prepared to operate in the new environment created by multi-domain operations. Integrating new technologies also requires a robust appreciation of the operational requirements of each member state. That’s echoed by the need for continuous education and training for military personnel. As Nato shifts towards multi-domain operations, it is essential that personnel at all levels are trained to operate in this new environment. This includes not only technical training on new systems but also education on the strategic and operational implications of multi-domain operations. If, moreover, technology plays a crucial role in Nato’s shift towards multi-domain operations, officers equally have to appreciate what their end goals actually are. “The driving force must be the desired operational capabilities and effects.” Vähätiitto says. To put it differently, the successful adoption of multi-domain operations will depend not only on technological advancements – but also on the ability of military leaders to adapt their strategies and doctrines to these new realities. “Transformation in military operations is not focused solely on technology,” Vähätiitto adds. “It always begins with humans and the adoption of new ways to operate.” Traditional hierarchical structures, which have long been the foundation of military organisations, may not be well-suited to the demands of multi-domain operations. Instead, there is a growing recognition of the need for a more decentralised approach, where decision-making authority is distributed across different levels of the organisation. By empowering troops on the ground with greater autonomy, Nato can ensure that its forces are better equipped to respond to the rapidly changing conditions of the modern battlefield.
Multi-domain warfare
As Nato continues to evolve its command-and-control capabilities, the focus will increasingly be on achieving seamless integration across all domains of warfare. This will require a combination of technological innovation, organisational adaptation and doctrinal changes. “Successful modern MDO operations are based on efficient and appropriate C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems,” Vähätiitto explains. “The incorporation of several capabilities focusing on united goals requires seamless understanding and integration of military operations – this is achieved by effective C2.” The goal is to create a command-and-control system that fully exploits the opportunities offered by new technologies while remaining resilient against potential adversary threats.
In the long term, the success of Nato’s shift to multi-domain operations will depend on the alliance’s ability to foster collaboration among its member states, share expertise and develop a unified approach to the challenges of modern warfare. Vähätiitto simplifies this into five core messages: effective data exploitation; continuous education; capability acceleration; integration of technologies and systems; and balancing doctrinal changes with technological opportunities. Focusing on these areas will ensure that Nato’s forces are prepared to meet the demands of future conflicts and maintain their strategic advantage on the global stage. Ultimately, Nato’s move towards multi-domain operations represents a paradigm shift in how the alliance conducts military operations. By embracing this change, Nato is positioning itself to better respond to the complexities of contemporary warfare, ensuring that it remains a formidable force in the years to come. ●
Defence & Security Systems International /
www.defence-and-security.com
Gorodenkoff/
Shutterstock.com
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