The recent violations of Allied airspace represent an unprecedented escalation of tensions between NATO and Russia. Matus Halas writes that NATO must try to protect its airspace against unauthorised activities, but the inconsistency of approach within NATO makes deterrence harder. While different incursions must be treated differently, there needs to be consistency both over time and across member states.
Both Russia and NATO member states are increasing their military presence and activities in the Arctic, and threat perceptions on both sides are intensifying, write Katarina Kertysova and Dr. Alexander Graef. Cooperative aerial observation, which lies at the heart of the Open Skies Treaty, has a useful role to play in mitigating military security risks and addressing environmental challenges in the region.
The proposed Russian withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty highlights Europe’s limited influence on arms control arrangements that affect it profoundly, writes Julia Berghofer. Europe needs to find a stronger voice or its security will remain a by-product of US-Russia relations.
With the increase in space activity, Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) are needed to maintain a sustainable space environment. Anuradha Damale argues that technical and political solutions need to be available to mitigate the misuse of RPO technology, even to contribute to counter-space capabilities.
The space environment is becoming increasingly populated by non-state actors who are pursuing a range of different goals. Marina Favaro argues that new norms of governance must be implemented by the international community in order to keep space safe, secure and sustainable.
ELN Policy Fellow Katarina Kertysova spoke with the Pravda daily about the US withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty.