IMPROVEMENT AND TRANSFORMATION OF SPACE POWER
Expanding horizons: securing Space for tomorrow
Recent news
The IISS Prague Defence Summit 2026
See more detail: The IISS Prague Defence Summit 2026From 16 to 18 September 2026, Prague hosted the third edition of the IISS (International Institute for Strategic Studies) Prague Defence Summit. The event bringing together government leaders, senior defence officials, industry representatives, analysts, and experts from across the transatlantic community to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of European defence. The NATO…
Panelist at the Space Defense & Security Summit 2026
See more detail: Panelist at the Space Defense & Security Summit 2026The NATO Space COE was pleased to take part in the Space Defense & Security Summit 2026, bringing together global leaders, military officials, industry pioneers, and investors to shape the future of space and defense. Our Deputy Director, Lt. Col. Björn Rückold, joined the panel “Strengthening Alliances: International Cooperation in Space Security”, contributing to discussions…
Connecting minds and strengthening cooperation
See more detail: Connecting minds and strengthening cooperationThe NATO Space COE took part in the Paris Space Summit, joining a diverse community of space and defense stakeholders for two days of high-level discussions on the rapidly evolving space domain. For the NATO Space COE, engaging with the wider space community is an essential part of our mission.By bringing together expertise from across…
Our
vision
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout.
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
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout.
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.
the directer massage
Centre of Excellence specifically to Space
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).
Patrick HEIM
COL (OF-5), FRA – NATO Space COE Director
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 ORGANIzATION
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.