Why the NORAD inventory might be the US and Canada’s Achilles’ heel
A US F-16 escorts Russians Su-35 Flanker and Tu-95 Bear bomber over the Bering Sea in September 2025. (Photo: US DoD)
Both the US and Canada operate Cold War-era capabilities which cannot defeat today’s and tomorrow’s threats.
The ageing inventory of the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) has been a growing concern for the US and Canada. Responsible for providing aerospace surveillance, identification, control and warning for both countries, the in-service capabilities have been in operation for more than four decades.
Former military officials, active-duty leaders and defence analysts speaking to Shephard confirmed that NORAD’s assets cannot defeat current and future threats.
“Most of what NORAD has was late ’70s, ’80s fielded, in the Cold War era,” the former NORAD Cdr and US Air Force (USAF) Gen (ret) Glen D VanHerck told Shephard. “The capabilities
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
-
![Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome]()
Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome
The new multi-layered defence system will harness AI to neutralise airborne threats and protect Europe from Russian aggression.
-
![What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?]()
What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?
Future US counter-uncrewed aerial system solutions are likely to require a flexible, multi-layered approach to tackle a broad spectrum of new threats as they emerge.
-
![Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar]()
Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar
The company’s order backlog as of 30 September totalled $25.2 billion and more than a third of this is scheduled to be fulfilled before the end of 2026.
-
![US military foresees growing use of 3D printing]()
US military foresees growing use of 3D printing
Advanced manufacturing has evolved to meet military requirements and now supports multiple US critical assets, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, F-18, F-22, F-35, Bradley, HMMWV and Patriot.
