The defence strategies of Central Eastern Europe (CEE) are undergoing a significant paradigm shift with the adoption of multi-domain operations (MDO) strategies. This comprehensive approach to warfare integrates land, air, sea, space, and cyber domains, offering a more cohesive and dynamic response to modern security challenges. For CEE nations, the implementation of MDO strategies is a crucial step in enhancing their military capabilities and readiness in an increasingly complex and interconnected battlefield.
Multi-domain operations represent a departure from traditional, domain-specific warfare tactics. Instead, MDO emphasises the interconnectedness of different battle spaces and the need for coordinated actions across various domains. The concept is rooted in the understanding that dominance in one domain can influence and be influenced by actions in others. For CEE countries, this approach is particularly relevant given their strategic geographic location and the evolving nature of threats in the region.
One key aspect of MDO in CEE is the integration of cyber capabilities into conventional military operations. Recognizing the growing significance of the cyber domain in modern warfare, countries like Estonia and Poland are investing heavily in cyber defence and offensive capabilities. Estonia, in particular, has become a leader in cyber warfare, drawing on its experiences of cyber attacks to build robust cyber defence mechanisms that are integrated into broader military strategies.
In the air and space domains, CEE countries are working to enhance their aerial and satellite capabilities. This includes the acquisition of advanced fighter aircraft, surveillance drones, and satellite communication systems. For example, Czechia’s acquisition of new multi-role combat aircraft and Slovakia’s investment in satellite communication technologies are indicative of the region’s focus on strengthening its air and space capabilities.
The land and sea domains are also critical components of CEE’s MDO strategy. Countries with access to the Baltic and Black Seas, such as Lithuania and Romania, are enhancing their naval capabilities to ensure maritime security and to integrate these with actions in other domains. On land, the focus is on developing agile and rapidly deployable forces, capable of operating in concert with air, sea, cyber, and space operations.
The implementation of MDO in CEE, however, is not without its challenges. One of the main hurdles is the need for significant investment in new technologies and training to operate effectively across multiple domains. Additionally, the integration of different military branches and capabilities into a cohesive MDO framework requires overcoming institutional and doctrinal barriers.
Furthermore, effective MDO requires a high level of interagency and international cooperation. For CEE nations, this means not only fostering collaboration among their own military and civilian agencies but also with NATO allies and other international partners.
The adoption of multi-domain operations strategies in Central Eastern Europe is a reflection of the region’s evolving defence posture. By integrating land, air, sea, space, and cyber capabilities, CEE countries are positioning themselves to more effectively address the complex security challenges of the 21st century. As these nations continue to develop and refine their MDO strategies, they will enhance their ability to operate in an increasingly interconnected and contested global security environment.
