New Delhi: UK has announced support to NATO’s efforts to enhance its space capabilities, including the possibility of using UK launch vehicles and spaceports.
According to a government press release, Defence Secretary John Healey signed a letter of intent Thursday paving the way for closer collaboration between NATO allies on government and commercial space launch capabilities. This initiative, known as the STARLIFT programme, aims to develop a network of space launch capabilities across the alliance.
The Defence Secretary also signed up to a range of multinational long-term projects at his first NATO Defence Ministerial, including virtual training and drone procurement, the release added.
The agreement on virtual training will allow NATO allies to train and work together using virtual simulator training, saving time, resources and money. The UK has also agreed to the creation of a single NATO test network to enable allies to use different munition types, such as 155mm, on various artillery systems, ensuring greater flexibility in joint operations. In addition, the UK will participate in a project to develop cutting-edge drones that will gather intelligence, surveillance and deliver strike capabilities.