DVIDS
GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany – Military leaders and air defense experts from more than 15 NATO countries and partner nations, as well as representatives from U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa (USAFE), U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF), Allied Land Command (LANDCOM), and Allied Air Command (AIRCOM), gathered in southern Germany from Feb. 19-21 for the European Integrated Air and Missile Defense (EIAMD) Symposium, hosted by 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command.
“As we face increasingly complex security challenges, the need for collaboration and innovation in our defense strategies has never been more critical,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Curtis W. King, commanding general of 10th AAMDC.
The symposium went beyond just discussions; it served as a critical forum for Allies and partner nations to discuss air and missile defense integration, emerging threats, and strategies to strengthen multinational interoperability in defense of Europe. With the evolving security landscape—particularly the increased use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), cruise and ballistic missiles, and hypersonic threats—leaders emphasized the necessity of a cohesive and layered integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) network that ensures rapid and coordinated responses.
“This symposium is about more than just sharing ideas—it’s about strengthening partnerships and ensuring we are ready to meet current and future challenges together,” said United Kingdom Maj. Benjamin Johnston, 10th AAMDC G5 strategy officer. “Integrated air and missile defense is a shared responsibility, and our ability to operate as a single, unified force is critical to maintaining deterrence and stability in Europe.”
“Enhancing NATO’s Air Defense Framework”
Throughout the three-day event, discussions focused on operational challenges, capability gaps, and ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering NATO’s IAMD framework. Senior leaders and subject-matter experts delivered briefings on a range of air defense topics designed to take a hard look at the challenges faced today.
A key theme of the symposium was the importance of real-time data sharing and air defense systems that allow Allies to coordinate their responses seamlessly. With a growing array of aerial threats—from ballistic missiles and drones to next-generation hypersonic weapons—attendees emphasized the need for faster decision-making processes and improved command and control structures.
