Conference of National Armaments Directors

It brings together the top officials responsible for defence procurement in NATO member and Partner countries to consider the political, economic and technical aspects of the development and procurement of equipment for NATO forces, with the aim of arriving at common solutions.

What is its authority, tasks and responsibilities?

The CNAD reports directly to the North Atlantic Council – NATO’s principal decision making body. It is tasked with identifying collaborative opportunities for research, development and production of military equipment and weapons systems. The CNAD is responsible for a number of co-operative armaments projects that aim to equip NATO forces with cutting-edge capabilities . Ongoing projects include a Programme of Work for Defence against Terrorism, the Alliance Ground Surveillance Programme, and the Active Layered Theatre Ballistic Missile Defence Programme.

Who participates?

All NATO member states are represented at the meetings of the CNAD, and some session are also open to Partner countries.

How does it work in practice?

The CNAD meets twice a year at the level of National Armaments Directors, under the chairmanship of the NATO Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment, to oversee and guide the work of the CNAD subordinate structure.

In addition to that, it meets regularly at the level of representatives of the National Armaments Directors (NADREPs), which come from the permanent delegation of member countries to NATO.

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