NATO Is Establishing A Zone On Its Eastern Flank Equipped With Sensors And Automated Systems
- 25.01.2026, 19:15
The alliance intends to build a multilevel defense system along the border with Belarus and Russia.
A zone equipped with sensors and automated systems on the ground, in the air and in space is being created on NATO's eastern flank. Bundeswehr Brigadier General Thomas Lovin told Welt am Sonntag about it in an interview with Bundeswehr Brigadier General Thomas Lovin.
The concept is called the Eastern Flank Deterrence Line (EFDL), he said. The main goal is to protect the countries that border Russia and Belarus on the so-called eastern flank. This means deterring a Russian attack and ensuring the ability to defend themselves in a crisis situation.
"In this respect, the EFDL is a concept designed to optimize NATO's current defense plans. However, this concept can in principle be applied not only to the eastern flank, but also worldwide. It would also, in principle, be suitable for the protection of critical civilian infrastructure such as airports," Lovin said.
Fundamental idea is to build a complex multi-layered defense system along the border with Russia and Belarus and not only use conventional troops for defense, but also create a robotic or automated zone near the border through obstacles and the use of technology.
The general emphasized that the EFDL essentially consists of five main components, the implementation of which is planned by the Alliance. At the same time, the Alliance is using Ukraine's experience in implementing the project.
The initial elements of the concept are now being tested in selected areas, including in partner countries on the eastern flank. Some systems have already been deployed and are operational, while others are nearing completion, he elaborated.
"This includes the installation of a system of sensors and actuators linked into a large digital network to create an automated zone. It also includes pre-deploying equipment, putting troops on the ground and establishing a command and control system that links national forces and NATO," the military explained.
The concept involves a network of sensors located on the ground, in space, cyberspace or in the air. They collect data on enemy movement or weapons deployment, link that data together and make the intelligence results available to as many NATO countries as possible in real time.