NATO Allies Commit $1 Billion to Enhance Space-Based Intelligence Sharing
During the recent summit in Washington, DC, NATO member states agreed to invest over $1 billion in improving intelligence sharing from national and commercial satellites. This commitment represents the largest investment in space-based capabilities in NATO’s history. The move is seen as a significant step towards incorporating space assets into NATO military operations, following the bloc’s official recognition of space as a war-fighting domain in 2019.
The establishment of a NATO Space Operations Center in 2020 and the creation of a “space branch” within the Allied Command Transformation in June 2025 further highlight the alliance’s dedication to leveraging space technology for security purposes. The new intelligence-sharing agreement, signed by 17 NATO nations, including the United States, aims to support the Alliance Persistent Surveillance from Space (APSS) program.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has emphasized the importance of space-based intelligence for modern warfare. The APSS program will enhance NATO’s surveillance capabilities on land and at sea by enabling the sharing of intelligence data among member states. While the program does not involve the development of NATO-owned spy satellites, it encourages nations to share observations from their existing government and commercial satellites.
Luxembourg, a small NATO member state, initially invested $18 million in the APSS program in 2023. This initiative aims to facilitate the dissemination of intelligence information among allies, breaking down barriers of secrecy and bureaucracy. The program will utilize cloud solutions and AI analytical tools to process and share surveillance data efficiently, providing decision-makers with timely and critical information.
Ludwig Decamps, the general manager of the NATO Communications and Information Agency, believes that the APSS initiative will significantly enhance NATO’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. By creating a virtual constellation called ‘Aquila’ and leveraging existing and future space assets from allied countries, NATO aims to strengthen its readiness and reduce dependency on external intelligence sources.
The commitment of NATO Allies to investing in space-based intelligence sharing demonstrates the alliance’s recognition of the critical role that space technology plays in modern military operations. As threats in the space domain continue to evolve, NATO’s proactive approach to integrating space assets into its security strategy is essential for maintaining a strong and effective defense posture in an increasingly complex security environment.
