NATO plans to enhance its missile defense systems on its eastern flank in response to a growing threat from Russia, Bloomberg reported on June 12, citing its undisclosed sources. For the first time, member states of NATO are reportedly considering combining the alliance's ballistic missile shield with other integrated missile defense assets.

NATO must increase its air and missile defense capacity by 400% to effectively counter the growing threat posed by Russia, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said Monday during a major defense policy address in London.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made a plea to Europe as the threat of Russian invasion into NATO territory ramps up.