Space and Defense
Abstract
This article investigates NATO’s dependence on space systems in joint warfighting and explores the use of simulation to quantify degradation effects. Using a custom-built AFSIM model of a NATO Arctic operation, the study demonstrates how GNSS spoofing and crosslink jamming undermine data integrity, commander trust, and strike execution—even without kinetic losses. Results show that partial degradations can cause mission failure through decision paralysis. By moving beyond binary modeling, this research highlights the need for nuanced simulations to prepare NATO for contested space environments and the challenges of great power competition.
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DOI
10.32873/uno.dc.sd.16.01.1308
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Nehls, Grant and Somani, Apoorva
(2025)
"Modeling NATO Joint Warfighting Through Space Combat Simulations,"
Space and Defense: Vol. 16:
No.
1, Article 8.
DOI: 10.32873/uno.dc.sd.16.01.1308
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/spaceanddefense/vol16/iss1/8
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