The Data Strategy outlines a comprehensive framework for implementing core data management functions essential for optimizing data utilization within the Alliance. Initially, the strategy emphasizes transitioning from maintaining data within dedicated applications to the utilization of shared data spaces and data platform services, ensuring that users and applications have the necessary infrastructure for data submission while guaranteeing storage, management services, and security provisions to support NATO missions effectively. Furthermore, metadata plays a crucial role in facilitating data discovery and access, with users required to adhere to standardized specifications such as the NATO Core Metadata Specification (NCMS). Alongside metadata association, the creation and maintenance of data catalogues are paramount, serving as repositories of information about shared data assets. Ensuring compliance with NATO agreed standards enables federated searches across multiple catalogues, enhancing data discoverability and utilization. Additionally, efforts are directed towards providing comprehensive descriptions of data structures to enable developers and architects to leverage data assets effectively across the organization. Beyond these core functions, the strategy emphasizes the importance of adequate funding and detailed planning, highlighting data as a strategic asset requiring dedicated investment. For example, investments are required for implementing data governance tools and platforms to automate and streamline data management processes, monitoring compliance with data policies, procedures and standards. Integration with the broader Digital Transformation Strategy ensures alignment with related initiatives such as the establishment of the Alliance Data Sharing Ecosystem and NATO’s Digital Backbone.