In a November 20 speech to NATO ministers in Brussels, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that while the organization’s security presence in space is vital, “NATO has no intention to put weapons in space — we are a defensive alliance.”

NATO members will continue to use space for observation and surveillance purposes, but will remain fully in line with international law, he said. “This approach can allow NATO planners to make requests for allies to provide capabilities and services, such as hours of satellite communications.”

“We are proud of NATO’s historic decision to recognise space as an operational domain, alongside air, land, sea and cyber. Space is part of our daily lives. It is also essential to the Alliance’s deterrence and defence, from navigation to intelligence to missile detection.” — NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

Observation and surveillance purposes

Stoltenberg further explained that NATO’s coordinated approach involves three strategic issues: relations with Russia, the rise of China, and arms control. “Making space an operational domain will help us ensure that all aspects are taken into account to ensure the success of our missions.”

NATO members will continue to use space for observation and surveillance purposes, but will remain “fully in line with international law,” he added. This approach “can allow NATO planners to make requests for allies to provide capabilities and services, such as hours of satellite communications.”

Stoltenberg noted that NATO keeps at the leading edge of technology with a “one billion dollar investment in eyes in the sky, AWACS surveillance aircraft. This modernization will ensure the fleet’s service to 2035 and provide the best possible intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.”

Sources: OAN Newsroom and Jens Stoltenberg Twitter