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In a powerful show of unity and purpose, over 300 military and civilian leaders from NATO, the European Union, Ukraine, and partner nations gathered in Poland for the third Operational Force Development Framework (OFDeF) Conference. 

300 military and civilian leaders from NATO, European Union, Ukraine, and partner nations.

Spearheaded by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) and backed by the NATO Security Assistance and Training Mission to Ukraine (NSATU) and other partners, this high-impact event marked a critical step in aligning NSATU coordination support to enhance Ukraine’s combat capabilities.

Launched in 2024 and refined in early 2025, the OFDeF initiative is more than a framework—it’s a strategic roadmap for transforming Ukraine’s armed forces into a modern, NATO-interoperable military force. This latest iteration of the conference prioritized synchronization, sustainability, and structure—three pillars vital to enhance Ukraine’s front-line resilience and long-term military readiness.

From Battlefield Lessons to NATO Standard

The involvement of the NATO–Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) added depth to operational knowledge-sharing, transforming real-time battlefield lessons from Ukraine into adaptable solutions that fit NATO standards. The result: more tailored, effective, and mission-relevant support flowing to Ukrainian troops at the tactical edge.

Real-time battlefield lessons from Ukraine are transformed into adaptable solutions that fit NATO standards.

Coordinated Action, Global Commitment

The second phase enabled high-level bilateral and multilateral engagements, reinforcing the shared strategic goals between Ukraine and its partners. This phase was pivotal for aligning national support plans with Ukraine’s operational priorities, ensuring that no resource is misaligned or duplicated. The final plenary session unified these diverse efforts into a cohesive vision for the future. Discussions emphasized not only immediate battlefield requirements but also the enduring mission of embedding NATO interoperability across Ukraine’s force structure.

Voices of Leadership

First Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Serhiy Boyev underscored Ukraine’s strategic direction: "Ukraine has transformed its defense industry. However, to prevail in this war of industries, we need consolidated solutions and the development of a joint defense ecosystem. The future of the democratic world is being decided in Ukraine, and it is our shared duty to act systematically, at scale, and without delay. I thank you for your support over the past 11 years — but today, it is needed more than ever."

The future of the democratic world is being decided in Ukraine.

First Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Serhiy Boyev.

Lieutenant General Curtis Buzzard, Commander of NSATU and SAG-U, highlighted NATO’s enduring commitment: "NSATU is here not just to help coordinate the training and donations, but to transform. Together, we are helping Ukraine creating a force that wins not only today’s battles but also secures peace for the next generation while ensuring that Ukraine is postured to fight through 2025 and beyond."

Together, we are helping Ukraine creating a force that wins not only today’s battles but also secures peace for the next generation.

Lieutenant General Curtis Buzzard, Commander of NSATU and SAG-U.

A Milestone for NATO's Strategic Assistance

This OFDeF Conference reaffirmed the success of NSATU as a cornerstone of NATO’s security assistance to Ukraine. It demonstrated how structured collaboration, battlefield-informed development, and aligned training initiatives are accelerating Ukraine’s path toward a better NATO interoperability.

Additionally, Minister Sergiy Boyev emphasized the importance of the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine Mission (NSATU) and the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Center (JATEC), which play key roles in strengthening frontline capabilities and turning Ukraine’s unique combat experience into tangible outcomes and innovative solutions.

As Russia’s aggression continues, this mission is more than military—it’s a strategic imperative. The unity and focus seen at OFDeF signal a clear message: Ukraine is not alone, and NATO is not standing still.