Russian A2/AD systems will undermine NATO credibility

Significance

The emergence of Russian A2/AD zones in the High North, the Baltic Sea, the eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea impacts NATO's ability to operate in key regions of interest to the alliance, and could threaten NATO's ability to reinforce its allies in a crisis or during wartime.

Impacts

• Russian A2/AD will drive NATO requirements for specific capabilities, including electronic warfare and stealthier systems.
• Georgia and Moldova will watch NATO's engagement with its eastern members closely for strong commitments.
• Covert Russian operations in the Baltic states form a more realistic scenario than overt military intervention.