NATO’s Steadfast Dart 26 demonstrates integrated multi-domain operations in Northern Germany

The dynamic demonstration highlighted NATO’s combined arms concept, bringing together land, air and special operations forces to achieve a shared operational effect. Conducted at a live-fire training area, the display was organised in successive phases to provide a condensed overview of current operational practice.

The scenario underscored the importance of intelligence, command and control, and rapid decision-making in complex operational environments. It was designed to reflect the realities of modern conflict and the need for coordinated action across multiple domains.

“Activities such as Steadfast Dart 26 are essential to strengthening NATO’s readiness and interoperability, enhancing our ability to respond at a moment’s notice to an emergent threat to the Alliance. This demonstration has shown how NATO forces are trained, interoperable and prepared to fight together across all domains whenever necessary,” said Major General Giuseppe Scuderi, Land Component Commander and responsible for commanding all ARF ground forces.

A multinational task group of around 300 personnel from Czechia, Italy, Spain and Türkiye participated in the demonstration. The forces operated under the unified command of the 8th Italian Mountain Infantry Regiment, underlining NATO’s capacity to work seamlessly across national and service boundaries.

The initial phases of the exercise focused on isolating a tactical objective through coordinated airborne infantry and special operations forces. Czech airborne troops secured key terrain, allowing special operations units to be inserted to neutralise a simulated high-value target.

Air-land integration was a central feature throughout the display. Joint Terminal Attack Controllers coordinated fixed-wing aircraft and attack helicopters to deliver simulated close air support in direct support of ground manoeuvres, demonstrating the precision and coordination required to employ air power safely.