That reality exposes NATO’s most acute gap: its airborne command and control (C2) enterprise. To bridge the gap, NATO launched an initial Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (iAFSC) initiative with six E-7A aircraft—modern, proven, but too few to meet Alliance-wide demand. Airborne C2 is a visible symbol of credibility; shortfalls are quickly noticed by allies and adversaries. Complementary airborne platforms are required for layered, theater-wide persistence. NATO cannot assume uninterrupted US support, nor afford gaps in its own airborne command and control.