NATO Will Need Years to Implement New Defense Program

NATO's military commanders will need years to prepare the troops for new defense and deterrence programs, NATO Military Committee Chairman Rob Bauer said on Monday.

“It will take time. It won't be possible to achieve immediate change. We will need many years to complete the task. Each NATO country must do its part,” EFE agency quoted him as saying.

NATO promises to avoid underestimating the Russian Federation in crafting defense plans. At the same time, Bauer assured that the new programs will help the alliance respond more effectively to various threats even before their completion.

According to Bauer, the plans are expected to be approved by participants at NATO's July summit in Vilnius. “And after Vilnius, real work will begin (...). We will need to take measures to bring these programs to life,” he said.

It is expected that the new programs will provide additional ground forces, aircraft, and ships to NATO's Allied Commander in Europe, Christopher Cavoli.