The Establishment and Work of JATEC
On February 17, 2025, the Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) was launched as the first joint civil-military institution between Ukraine and NATO. Over the following year, JATEC focused on integrating Ukrainian combat experience into NATO planning processes, driving innovation and digitalization, and facilitating Ukraine's participation in Alliance exercises. This marks a significant evolution from a recipient of support to a contributor of expertise.
A key milestone was the hosting of three NATO Innovation Challenges in 2025. For the first time in its history, Ukraine was integrated into specific planning processes for NATO collective defense exercises. This integration fostered deeper collaboration and interoperability between Ukrainian military structures and the Alliance.
A notable achievement was the Ukrainian Naval Forces taking command of the OPFOR (Opposing Force) component during international exercises in Portugal, highlighting Ukraine's growing role in multinational drills. Furthermore, Ukraine's DELTA situational awareness system was recognized as an effective tool for managing multinational forces, underscoring the value of battlefield-tested innovation.
New Prospects for Defense Industry Cooperation
In 2025, Ukrainian companies were, for the first time, invited to bid for contracts with NATO structures, opening new avenues for the development of Ukraine's defense industry. Innovations discussed within JATEC frameworks included:
- Air target interception systems
- AI-driven solutions for unmanned aerial vehicle targeting
- Countermeasures against FPV drones and guided aerial bombs
Consequently, JATEC's first year of operation proved to be a pivotal stage in advancing Ukraine-NATO cooperation, creating new horizons for collaboration in security and defense.
The creation of JATEC and the accomplishments of 2025 demonstrate a strengthening strategic partnership between Ukraine and NATO within the context of Euro-Atlantic integration.
The inclusion of Ukrainian firms in NATO contracting could significantly boost the domestic defense industrial base, which is critically important amid ongoing security challenges. The development of military innovations and Ukraine's active role in international exercises emphasize how vital this partnership is for enhancing the nation's defensive capabilities.