NATO set to form first-ever unified Counter-Drone Doctrine for combating drones

In a significant milestone, NATO is on the verge of introducing its first-ever counter-drone doctrine, offering member states comprehensive insights into combating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and creating uniform training protocols for operators. The roadmap for this doctrine has been in the works for a while, with the formal tasking to create it issued earlier this year. The doctrine aims to expand upon a 2019 handbook, which primarily outlined key principles for effectively countering drones. 

This new doctrine, set to be around 70-80 pages, diverges from its 2019 predecessor in formality and focus. While both documents cover similar content, the new NATO-wide c-UAS (counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems) doctrine will provide a more structured approach to address the specific needs of NATO member states. Its main goal is to guide member states on effectively organizing and executing counter-drone operations across diverse operational settings. 

Strengthening counter-drone capabilities 

NATO's counter-drone doctrine is expected to emphasise the significance of multidomain and layered solutions, aiming to ensure a coordinated response. It will make recommendations on operationalising c-UAS and advocate for unified training standards for drone operators, streamlining NATO's response to the evolving drone threat in modern conflicts. 

The document is currently awaiting presentation for ratification by a NATO committee responsible for developing military operational standards. Upon the incorporation of any requested changes, final approval is anticipated. If all goes as planned, the committee aims to endorse the doctrine before the year's end. 

The genesis of the doctrine can be traced back to events that unfolded before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. While NATO had previously acknowledged the benefits of unmanned aircraft, it was only recently that the majority of member states seriously expanded their drone capabilities and defense mechanisms against them. Earlier initiatives included the formation of a NATO c-UAS working group in 2019 and various studies to identify the limitations of existing counter-drone systems. The introduction of the counter-drone doctrine signifies NATO's commitment to enhancing its capabilities and preparedness against emerging security challenges.