NATO allies risk falling behind in the next major European conflict unless they accelerate the development of new weapon systems. Sweden’s top air force leader has warned that without matching Ukraine’s ability to innovate rapidly under pressure, Europe may struggle in any future confrontation with Russia.

The war in Ukraine has become a remarkable example of swift military adaptation. Ukrainian forces have shown how battlefield innovation can evolve week by week, constantly reshaping the use of weapons and tactics. Systems originally supplied with specific purposes are now employed in completely new ways, reflecting an agile and inventive approach to survival and success.

This capacity to learn, test and adjust under combat conditions has impressed defence experts across Europe. Many now regard Ukraine’s methods as a vital blueprint for future NATO preparedness. The conflict has demonstrated that speed of learning and adaptation is as decisive as weapon power itself.

Across the Nordic region, defence leaders are urging industry to prioritise technologies already tested in Ukraine over long-term projects with decade-long development cycles. The call for rapid innovation comes as Russian drone incursions have unsettled the continent and spurred NATO to strengthen its eastern defences. The European Union is even considering a continent-wide “drone wall” — a layered air defence system with strong counter-drone capabilities.

To face emerging threats, European air forces, industry and academia are being urged to work together in ways that go beyond traditional peace-time partnerships. The emphasis is now on building genuine wartime capability through continuous collaboration and real-time adaptation.

Sweden is putting this principle into action as it brings the Saab-produced S 106 GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft into service. The programme features a “development cell” where industry experts, researchers and military personnel work side by side within the air force structure. This model ensures that innovation happens inside the operational environment, allowing for instant feedback and practical refinement of systems.

Ukraine’s experience has proven that agility and cooperation are just as crucial as advanced equipment. For NATO and its partners, embracing Ukraine’s pace of innovation may determine whether Europe can maintain its security and readiness for whatever challenges lie ahead.