NSPA advances Modular GBAD project with second concept study awarded to three defence companies

Concept Study #1 focused on establishing the initial foundations of the system architecture. The launch of the second study marks a key stage in the development of a modular approach to ground-based air defence for participating nations.

Charlotte Hazeldean, NSPA Director of Acquisition, said: “The launch of Concept Study #2 is a significant milestone for the Modular GBAD concept stage activities. It demonstrates NSPA’s efforts and dedication to meeting the challenges of Modular GBAD systems for Participating Nations, reflecting the strength of multinational cooperation as well as the significant added value of a competitive environment. NSPA recognises the responsibility that comes with delivering a capability of this Magnitude and so expertise, innovation and operational experience across our multinational customers and Industry were brought together with NATO and NSPA SMEs to enhance our collective defence. NSPA’s Modular GBAD Programme confirms the need and value of our Acquisition Directorate, established in 2024”.

The agency stated that the rapid move to Concept Study #2 was enabled by an innovative procurement strategy. It also reflects the commitment of the Modular GBAD Support Partnership Nations and NSPA to modernising ground-based air defence by addressing interoperability and integration challenges across effectors, sensors and Command and Control systems, while preserving diversity to maintain innovation and flexibility.

Harald Mannheim, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, said: “This decision underscores Airbus’ expertise in air defence, built on our combat-proven Command and Control systems. Our Modular GBAD vision introduces a future-proof system of systems architecture that enhances collaborative air defence by integrating previously stand-alone systems. In today’s evolving threat landscape, the collaborative use of various GBAD assets within an allied environment is more crucial than ever to ensure effective and unified defence capabilities”.

Tim Hadfield, Managing Director of Lockheed Martin UK Ampthill, said: “We are delighted to have been selected by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency to progress from Concept Study #1 to Concept Study #2. Building on our established modular foundation, this work will help NATO’s future Modular GBAD architecture. Leveraging the expertise behind our proven SkyKeeper system and modular Command and Control capability, we are supporting the development of a resilient and interoperable European solution for NATO and its allies”.

Tom Laliberty, President of Land & Air Defense Systems at Raytheon, said: “Raytheon is at the forefront of ground-based air defence modernisation by enabling system interoperability across Europe. In partnership with NSPA, we are advancing a modular, future-ready GBAD architecture that strengthens NATO’s air defence capabilities”.

Under Concept Study #2, the three industry teams will further define and refine their respective system architectures. The work will contribute to the development of a Concept of Modularity aimed at achieving interoperability at national and NATO level for both legacy and future ground-based air defence systems.

Each contractor will focus on how its proposed Modular GBAD architecture can be implemented in practice. The objective is to enhance operational effectiveness, sustainability, resilience and availability across different force structures and deployment environments.

NSPA stated that this milestone reaffirms its commitment to professionalism, operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The agency aims to position itself as the leading choice for multinational defence acquisition within the Alliance, linking nations and industry.