In today’s threat environment, military advantage is shaped not just by capability, but by cohesion. The alliances that prevail are those able to move with coordination across domains and borders. At the foundation of that coordination is connectivity.

As NATO adapts to increasingly contested environments and evolving adversaries, its modernization efforts reflect a clear priority: the ability to collect, process and act on information securely and at speed. Communications transformed from being a supporting element to the central pillar of operational effectiveness. This shift is driving NATO’s modernization agenda.

Aligning modernization with mission readiness

Across NATO and allied nations, forces are expanding their digital transformation to enhance responsiveness and mission readiness. But as the volume and velocity of data in defense operations grows, new infrastructure must enable real-time decision-making across complex coalitions.

In Norway’s Joint Viking exercise, over 10,000 troops shared real-time intelligence using Nokia’s 5G solutions. The advanced network allowed faster response times and greater situational awareness across a broad operating environment. Nokia collaborated with Telia and the Finnish Defence Forces to complete the first cross-border 5G slice handover. This connected units without requiring duplicate infrastructure while moving across national boundaries.

These demonstrations prove that modern communications architecture is essential to NATO’s readiness. Speed and security in data movement are now key operational differentiators.

Supporting tactical execution on the ground

NATO’s strategic vision requires tactical implementation that accounts for harsh and unpredictable conditions. To address this, Nokia unveiled two new tools at DSEI UK 2025, built specifically for contested environments: the Nokia Mission-Safe Phone and the Nokia Banshee 5G Tactical Radio.

The Nokia Mission-Safe Phone is a secure 5G device, designed and manufactured in Europe by HMD. It delivers encrypted broadband communications in contested environments and enables personnel to manage mapping, intelligence updates and communications in a single, resilient platform.

The Nokia Banshee 5G Tactical Radio expands the Banshee portfolio with a small size, weight and power (SWaP) radio that delivers secure 5G connectivity for forward operating bases, mobile command posts and dispersed units. It is deployable where infrastructure is limited and rapid setup is critical.

Both solutions are part of a broader effort to push secure, reliable communications further into the tactical edge, supporting on-the-ground coordination and enhancing decision-making speed. But no single solution meets the scale of NATO’s needs. Partnerships expand these capabilities.

Scaling through strategic partnerships

NATO’s ability to implement large-scale networks is strengthened by partnerships with industry leaders. Nokia deployed over 50 mission-critical networks to NATO allies, Five Eyes partners and the U.S. Department of Defense. These deployments span across environments, from smart bases to mobile tactical networks, and support the shift toward integrated, responsive operations.

Working with strategic partners, Nokia has helped develop interoperable, standards-based systems that meet defense demands. One example is the 5G.MIL Hybrid Base Station, a collaboration with Lockheed Martin that integrates military and commercial networks to ensure continuity during joint operations.

By focusing on interoperability and secure communications, Nokia supports NATO’s ability to operate as a unified force in conventional and dynamic threat environments.

The next phase of NATO operations

Nokia’s role in this transformation goes beyond fielded technologies. We chair the NATO Cellular Communications Syndicate, actively contribute to European Defence Fund projects and are involved in shaping the next generation of military network NATO standards.

Future conflicts will be shaped by the ability to manage and interpret data quickly and securely. As networks become the connective tissue of joint operations, NATO’s ability to act as a coordinated, data-driven alliance will determine its agility and effectiveness for years to come.