The NATO Transformation Command has launched the Innovation Challenge competition aimed at developing solutions against the so-called Russian KABs. The competition conditions specify that the solution must be simple and understandable, requiring no extensive training or integration.
It has also been outlined that the solution can be at the stage of an "advanced concept," or it can be an adaptation of existing and available solutions. The proposal must achieve at least one of the following: detect, suppress using electronic warfare means, including countering satellite navigation, destroy the bomb itself, counter the carrier to prevent launch conditions, and protect potential target sites from strikes. Importantly, the solution must be cost-effective in terms of resource expenditure and easily scalable.
It is important to note that only teams from NATO member countries can participate in the competition. At the same time, Ukraine evidently already has solutions for countering Russian KABs that are proving effective on the battlefield.
Proposals for the competition will be accepted from February 5 to March 13, with results announced on March 27-28. This means the deadlines are quite tight. It is worth reminding that last year the same organization held a competition for developing automated minefield clearance tools and enhancing UAV resilience against electronic warfare.
It is currently difficult to predict what exactly will be proposed and how the competition will conclude. However, the mere fact of its occurrence can be interpreted in the context that NATO is considering the threat posed by Russian KABs not only to Ukraine but also to itself. Ultimately, the whole concept of the Alliance regarding warfare under full air superiority is certainly impressive, but it primarily depends on the United States. Moreover, one must always anticipate actions when things do not go according to plan.
Additionally, the development of such guided munitions clearly indicates that their operational range will increase. A good example of this is American projects like the Powered JDAM, which involves adding a miniature jet engine to the JDAM-ER, as well as the classified ERAM bomb-missile with a range of 463 km. It is quite evident that Russia will follow a similar path.