JATEC and NATO Allied Command Transformation test new solutions to counter guided aerial bombs

The NATO–Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Center (JATEC) and NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT) have conducted the next stage of testing for an innovative solution to counter guided aerial bombs (GABs).

At a test range in France, under adverse weather conditions, development teams tested the performance of an integrated technical solution comprising radar, AI-powered software, and an interceptor drone.

Target acquisition and tracking of a dummy enemy target were performed using a radar equipped with an advanced sensor system. Using AI-powered software, the interceptor drone then executed a precomputed trajectory to engage the target.

The technological solution is being developed by companies from NATO member states, involving representatives of Ukraine’s innovative defense sector and supported by experts from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The initiative originates from JATEC and NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT).  

The project has evolved from an initial concept to prototypes at different stages of technological implementation. It aims to protect Ukrainian service members and civilians from one of the most devastating threats of contemporary warfare.

Launched in March 2025, the project to counter russian guided aerial bombs originated from NATO’s 15th Innovation Challenge at JATEC. 

A jury composed of experts from NATO Allied Command Transformation, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the Command of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the Command of the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine selected three winners out of 40 teams.

The winners were: Alta Ares (France) — AI-powered detection algorithms; Tytan Technologies (Germany) — interception systems; and ATREYD (France) — container-based interceptor swarms.

Ukrainian experts are taking an active part in the testing and offering expert evaluations, which allows the solutions to be optimally tailored to the realities of contemporary warfare.