Multi-domain operations: Enter the future of European defence
European defence aerospace is changing, powered by smart, networked capabilities for multi-domain operations. We are here to drive its transformation.
Ensuring European security across domains
Prevail as one
Military operations are becoming increasingly complex, involving ever more advanced technologies and tactics. Going forward, this calls for an integrated approach. Multi-domain operations present a coherent and adaptive way of carrying out missions, uniting land, air, sea, space and cyber under one interconnected roof.
Within this multi-domain environment, Airbus is developing an interconnected network of capabilities spanning various domains. This involves preparing available military aircraft and helicopters for additional roles, setting up tomorrow's highly connected air combat systems and developing new crewed and uncrewed aerial systems that will work together seamlessly.
One mission, all domains
In a complex theater of operations, success hinges on seamless synchronisation of capabilities. Multi-domain operations integrate air, land, sea, space and cyber to create a unified force that can outthink and outpace the opponent.
All domains interconnected
Air
Beyond carrying out strategic attacks, aerial forces collaborate with their counterparts in other domains to support land and sea operations or deliver mission-critical supplies.
Land
Ground forces move with precision, supported by intelligence from all domains to outmaneuver threats. Faster decision-making and improved coordination give them the upper hand.
Sea
Naval forces operate with heightened awareness, securing critical waterways while coordinating with assets on land and in the air. A rapid threat response ensures that critical areas and assets are protected.
Space
Satellites enable seamless global connectivity ensuring data exchange and communication across all domains. Uninterrupted surveillance gives the armed forces a strategic and tactical advantage.
Cyber
Digital solutions help ward off hostile threats and protect digital and physical assets from cyber attacks. It also allows for offensive maneuvers in support of other domains.
Airbus’ building blocks for multi-domain operations
Shaping Europe’s defence aerospace ecosystem
Strength in unity
The future of European defence depends on collaboration and joining forces. Promoting European self-reliance and the sovereignty of its nations lies at the heart of Airbus's mission. As a leading manufacturer and integrator of advanced defence capabilities, and a catalyst for multinational programmes, we are at the forefront of this technological disruption, fostering the cross-border collaboration vital for Europe to sustain its leadership in modern defence.
We shape and lead Europe’s ecosystem of defence aerospace. Because, ultimately, European defence is stronger when it's built together.
Where are multi-domain operations heading?
To 2040 and beyond
Today: Laying the groundwork
Airbus enables multi-domain operations by providing connected aircraft, secure communication systems, ISR capabilities, and AI-supported solutions for military decision makers.
2030: True multi-domain operations
By 2030, Airbus will provide interoperable systems, real-time data fusion across domains and scalable command networks to support joint operations.
2040: Future Combat Air System
Multi-domain operations will be powered by AI, uncrewed systems and secure connectivity, coming together in the Future Combat Air System, with the Next Generation Weapon System at its core.
Crewed-uncrewed teaming
Combining capabilities
Uncrewed aerial systems play a pivotal role in supporting air- and rotorcraft, enhancing their situational awareness and enabling them to carry out missions more effectively in multi-domain environments.
Airbus is spearheading the collaboration between crewed and uncrewed aerial platforms. For example, in 2024, Airbus demonstrated the potential of crewed-uncrewed teaming when an H130 helicopter took control of a VSR700 in response to a simulated piracy threat.
Our contribution to collaborative European defence
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Military Aircraft
The company’s military aircraft portfolio includes the Eurofighter combat aircraft; the A400M, C295 and CN235 airlifters; and the…
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Military helicopters
With some 19,000 helicopters delivered in 150 countries, Airbus Helicopters supplies almost one-third of the world’s rotorcraft…
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Unmanned Aerial Systems
Airbus’ leverages its heritage and expertise in manned flight for robust and reliable unmanned aerial systems which are…
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Military Space
Airbus’ space-based assets ensure constant communication, connectivity and surveillance for military operations on land, at sea,…
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Connectivity
Airbus specialises in secure, multi-orbit, multi-domain connectivity across the world's land, sea, air and space domains.
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Intelligence and data
Airbus C5ISR solutions deliver a full picture with advanced command, control, communications, cyber, and iIntelligence…
