IMPROVEMENT AND TRANSFORMATION OF
SPACE POWER
“Per Excellentiam Ad Astra”
Recent news
The 2026 NATO Space COE Conference
See more detail: The 2026 NATO Space COE ConferenceThe second edition of the NATO Space COE Conference took place in Toulouse, France, from 27 to 29 April, 2026. This year’s theme, “From Awareness to Action: Embedding Space in NATO Operations,” emphasises the increasing significance of space in defence, resilience, and multinational coordination. Participants engage in thought-provoking keynote addresses and panel discussions that highlight…
Lieutenant General ZELLMANN visit
See more detail: Lieutenant General ZELLMANN visitWe were honored to welcome Lieutenant General Richard Zellmann, Deputy Commander of US Space Command, on April 27th at the NATO Space Centre of Excellence in Toulouse. On the sidelines of the conference we organized, where he contributed as a distinguished speaker, Lt Gen Zellmann had the opportunity to:
SparteX 2026 Exercise
See more detail: SparteX 2026 ExerciseThe French Space Command organized its annual military space exercise from 8 to 27 February 2026 at Air Base 101 in Toulouse. The scenario, focused on multi-domain integration, tested interoperability between the space operations command centre and other command structures. It included 28 space events, from the ground and in all orbits, with 4,000 simulated…
Our
vision
The NATO Space COE will be the catalyst for the comprehension,
improvement, and transformation of Space Power by delivering effective solutions through the four COE’s pillars, and providing relevant expertise to the benefit of NATO and Allies.
our
mission
The NATO Space COE will provide knowledge,
analysis, and products covering the three operational Space functions (SDA, OSS, and SDC), stimulate Space expertise sharing and interoperability, and constitute a bridge between NATO and all relevant national and international Space organizations from various sectors (Defence, Civil, Industry, Academia and Research).
director’s message
Patrick HEIM
COL (OF-5), FRA – NATO Space COE Director
Building upon the solid foundation laid since Space was recognized as NATO’s 5th operational domain in 2019 and our official accreditation on 14th July 2023, the NATO Space Centre of Excellence continues its dedicated mission to deliver unmatched expertise, strategic advice, and innovative concepts to the Alliance.
Our commitment to supporting NATO remains steadfast. We continue to advance key initiatives, including the integration of Space into Multi-Domain Operations, the refinement of operational doctrine, and active support to joint Allied exercises. A major milestone in our journey was reached on 19th January 2026 with the inauguration of our new permanent facility in Toulouse, marking the official declaration of our Full Operational Capability (FOC).
As I officially assume leadership on 10th August 2026, I would like to tip my hat to my predecessor, Colonel Sylvain Debarre. I salute his remarkable vision, leadership, and the extraordinary path accomplished under his tenure. Building on his lasting legacy, my priority is to ensure seamless continuity in our ongoing work while steering the COE to meet the new challenges of an increasingly uncertain world. Today, as a fully operational hub, the NATO Space COE stands ready to address these complex demands and ensure the Alliance maintains its edge in Space.
DISCOVER OUR ORGANISATION
The activity is organized on four divisions
The Programme of Work (POW) is the document setting out the COE
activities during a calendar year, including the long-term perspective. The
POW is submitted to the Steering Committee for approval and executed along the four NATO-Accredited COE pillars
The location
Located in Toulouse, France, at the heart of a valuable Space ecosystem, the NATO Space COE is able to take advantage of worldwide Space resources and expertise.
NATO Space
Centre of Excellence
contact@space-coe.org