Watching from Above – NATO Airborne Sensing
Published on March 9, 2023
NATO’s airborne platforms are proving effective at keeping eyes on air and surface activities. The alliance’s ‘sensing’ capabilities are informed by technologically advanced systems operating in coordination with associated forces.
The uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) known as the NATO RQ-4D Pheonix is one such system. Operating primarily out of Sigonella, Italy, five RQ-4Ds, in coordination with ground command and control stations, provide ‘near real-time’ terrestrial and maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). It is a high-altitude, long-endurance platform, equipped with ‘advanced radar sensors’ that continuously track and detect moving or stationary surface objects.