GMES is now in its concrete implementation phase, in accordance with the action plan published in February 2004.

By its nature GMES is complex and requires the integration of data from space-based and in-situ earth observation capacities into user-driven operational application services.

The capacity has to be built up gradually, based on clearly identified priorities and by using existing elements wherever possible.

The objective is to gradually develop and validate a number of pilot operational services, based on selected R&D projects extending and strengthening the current actions.

In this perspective 3 services have been selected for "fast-track" treatment, dealing respectively with Emergency Response,  Land Monitoring and Marine Services. These first services should enter the validation phase by 2008.