IRIA News

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NATO’s Deployable Air Command and Control Center (DACCC) in Poggio Renatico, Italy, has deployed the mobile DARS (Deployable Air Control Centre, Recognized Air Picture Production Centre, Sensor Fusion Post) system to Germany and Netherlands for the Ramstein Dust exercise.

During this year’s Ramstein Dust exercise, the NATO allies are deploying a DADR (Deployable Air Defense Radar) and two GAG (Ground-Air-Ground) modules, requiring a total of 64 vehicles. 56 of these vehicles belong to NATO, while the remaining eight are from the German 467th Logistic Battalion.

The convoy of vehicles departed on March 7, to three different locations across the Netherlands and Germany. The deployment of DARS goes beyond a mere technical drill, it showcases NATO’s capability to rapidly and effectively respond to air threats while seamlessly integrating into the Alliance’s air and missile defense system, the NATO AIRCOM statement highlighted.

By deploying the DACCC alongside its DARS, DADR, and GAG assets, NATO reinforces its leadership in integrated air and missile defense, prioritizing interoperability, agility, and resilience to address both present and emerging challenges, the statement added.

DACCC commander Gen. D.A. Maineri said, “This exercise represents a key moment to test and enhance the Atlantic Alliance’s command, control and air surveillance capabilities.”

“The operational effort is significant and required external resources, such as logistical support from the German Armed Forces and additional controller personnel provided by Sweden and Canada. Since its very beginning, this exercise demonstrates the strength of the Alliance: cohesion and interoperability,” he added.

The DARS is a state-of-the-art mobile command and control system that integrates data from various sources, including both active and passive sensors. This integration contributes to the Recognized Air Picture (RAP), a detailed graphical representation of all available air activity, crucial for managing airspace and enabling swift, effective threat responses by coordinating air and Surface Based Air and Missile Defense (SBAMD) assets.

The DADR enhances radar surveillance by expanding coverage within the operational theater, while GAG modules strengthen communication between ground and air forces by extending radio reach and improving tactical link availability. Together, these systems create a seamlessly integrated network that reinforces the DACCC, a key element of NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense System (NATINAMDS).

Exercise Ramstein Dust

Ramstein Dust is a NATO exercise conducted under the oversight of the DACCC. It is designed to test and enhance the Alliance’s deployable air command and control capabilities. The exercise focuses on the rapid deployment and integration of critical air surveillance and defense assets in a simulated operational environment. By replicating real-world scenarios, Ramstein Dust ensures that NATO remains agile and prepared to address evolving air and missile threats.

The primary objective of the exercise is to evaluate the readiness and mobility of NATO’s air command and control units. The exercise also highlights joint operations, integrating personnel and resources from various NATO nations. It enhances interoperability between Allied nations in air and missile defense operations and strengthens coordination between air and ground-based defense systems.

Beyond testing operational effectiveness, the exercise plays a vital strategic role in reinforcing NATO’s commitment to collective defense. By conducting Ramstein Dust regularly, NATO ensures that its air and missile defense capabilities remain robust, adaptable, and fully integrated within the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense System. It also underscores the Alliance’s ability to deploy swiftly and operate cohesively, showcasing its resilience in the face of present and future security challenges.