NATO to Link Ukrainian F-16s and Mirage Aircraft to Its Military Network.
Ukraine takes a significant stride in military collaboration with NATO as the country connects to the alliance's aviation system. This move allows Ukrainian Air Force aircraft to coordinate with their NATO counterparts through a digital interface.
The announcement was made by Deputy Minister of Defense for Digitization, Kateryna Chornogorenko, as reported by RBC-Ukraine. The digital connection is facilitated through the use of NATO software - the System Interface of the Command and Control Center (CRC System Interface, CSI).
The adoption of CSI will enable Ukrainian Air Forces to operate within a unified digital system with the aviation of NATO countries. This software is a crucial component of NATO's battle management system and operates via the Link-16 protocol, often referred to as NATO's "military Wi-Fi."
Through this protocol, real-time information exchange occurs between aircraft, air defense and missile defense systems, and other defense components. Key NATO members use this program, and its integration is vital for Ukraine to achieve full interoperability with its allies.
Deputy Minister Chornogorenko stated, "We're not just dreaming of joint operations with allies; we're making it a reality." With this integration, Ukrainian forces can now work in the same digital battlefield ecosystem as NATO member states, enhancing coordination and facilitating joint operations.
The agreement was achieved through joint efforts between the Ministry of Defense, General Staff, Air Forces, and international partners. This integration significantly boosts Ukraine's operational capabilities, improves its defense against current threats, and strengthens its defense posture by leveraging the collective intelligence and resources of the NATO alliance.
The integration of Ukraine with NATO's aviation system marks a significant milestone in military interoperability, improving the operational effectiveness of Ukrainian forces and paving the way for more practical and effective joint military actions with NATO allies.
The adoption of the System Interface of the Command and Control Center (CSI) by Ukrainian Air Forces is a significant step, as it is a crucial component of NATO's battle management system, operational via the Link-16 protocol, often referred to as NATO's "military Wi-Fi." this integration enhances the ability of Ukrainian forces to operate within a unified digital system with NATO countries, using technology to facilitate joint operations and boosting operational capabilities.
