Mr. T is a Lisbon-based analyst and founder of DroneIntel.eu, mapping Europe’s drone, defense, and policy landscape. Former tech advisor, he connects multilingual sources, verifies OSINT, and delivers clear insights for professionals and the public.
Local Players
France's MERIO has developed an innovative drone-based laser targeting system aimed at enhancing military precision. This advancement is part of a broader effort to integrate cutting-edge technology into defense operations, positioning France at the forefront of drone warfare capabilities.
EU
The European Commission and the European Investment Fund have allocated €30 million to Sienna Hephaistos Private Investments under the InvestEU Defence Equity Facility, aiming to bolster defense capabilities across Europe.
Ukraine
Ukraine's deployment of long-range drones is significantly impacting the ongoing conflict with Russia. These advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are being used for reconnaissance and precision strikes, allowing Ukrainian forces to engage targets deep within Russian-held territory.
China
China has confirmed that its suspension of rare earth export controls will now include the EU, following high-level discussions between Chinese and European officials. This move aims to stabilize supply chains crucial for the EU's clean-tech and defense industries.
Russia
On October 20, 2025, the Ukrainian 40th Separate Coastal Defense Brigade showcased a successful operation using its Barracuda unmanned surface vessel to launch FPV drones against a Russian transport ship in the Dnipro delta.
nordics
Finnish President Sauli Niinistö has raised concerns over escalating nuclear tensions in Europe, particularly following reports of drones surveilling NATO's nuclear deterrence site in Belgium. This situation is indicative of broader geopolitical anxieties and the evolving role of unmanned aerial sys
Local Players
The French Army continues to enhance its military capabilities through advanced drone technology, particularly with the introduction of the Parrot ANAFI USA.
Events
The inaugural Commercial UAV Forum, set for April 22-23, 2026, in Amsterdam, garners support from over 150 organizations globally, emphasizing Europe's commitment to industrial drone applications and collaboration in the sector.
balkans
Romania aims to leverage Europe's defense spending surge to enhance its domestic arms production capabilities. Defense Minister Moșteanu emphasizes the importance of local job creation and industrial returns from EU military investments.
Ukraine
Despite significant investments, Western drones have not met expectations on the Ukrainian battlefield, raising concerns about their effectiveness against Russian forces. This article examines the limitations and challenges faced by these unmanned systems in real combat scenarios.
defense
NATO plans to integrate drones into its Eastern Flank defenses by mid-2026, as highlighted by a senior commander. This move aims to counter the increasing threat of drone warfare, which poses significant risks to troops on the ground.
dach
Berlin Brandenburg Airport experienced a nearly two-hour suspension of flights due to the sighting of unidentified drones. This incident is part of a growing trend of drone alerts affecting airports and military sites across Europe.