Open Skies Treaty

The Open Skies Treaty is an international agreement that allows member countries to conduct unarmed surveillance flights over each other's territories. This transparent system aims to promote mutual trust and reduce the risk of conflict by providing real-time, overflight access for gathering information about military forces and activities. Signed in 1992 and entering into force in 2002, it includes nations primarily in Europe and North America. The treaty enhances transparency, security, and stability by enabling member states to verify compliance with arms control agreements without surprise inspections.