A new industry roundtable aims to foster strategic cooperation between the EU Commission and the defense sector, focusing on advancing drone capabilities. This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration in enhancing Europe's defense technology landscape.
Fotokite and AeriaOne have launched a partnership at Milipol Paris 2025, introducing Swarm-Enabled Ground Intelligence (SEGI). This collaboration integrates autonomous aerial systems with augmented-reality interfaces, enhancing real-time intelligence for tactical units. The system aims to improve si
Parrot has been awarded a multi-year contract to supply its ANAFI UKR micro-UAS to a European Defence Force, enhancing tactical reconnaissance capabilities. This decision follows a competitive procurement process aimed at modernizing frontline operational tools.
French startup Rift has successfully raised €4.6 million to develop a real-time drone surveillance network aimed at enhancing border security and monitoring critical infrastructure across Europe. The funding round was led by AlleyCorp, with additional support from OVNI Capital.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has released a pivotal report on Higher Airspace Operations (HAO), detailing market developments and demand analysis. This report, produced in collaboration with EUROCAE, is a crucial step towards enhancing the regulatory framework.
Nokia has upgraded its 5G drone platform by integrating Amprius SiCore batteries, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and flight duration. This development underscores the growing importance of advanced battery technology in the drone sector.
Helsing's acquisition of Blue Ocean aims to bolster its Maritime Defence Programme by integrating advanced autonomous underwater vehicle technology, enhancing capabilities for underwater ISR operations in Europe and AUKUS regions.
The partnership integrates Helsing's AI with ARX Robotics' UGVs to digitize land warfare, accelerating reconnaissance and strike capabilities. This aims for technological superiority over adversaries by reducing human latency in the kill chain.
Poland has entered a defense agreement with Norway’s Kongsberg to manufacture Seawolf drones for Ukraine. This collaboration aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict, while enhancing Poland's role in European defense manufacturing.
Quantum Systems, Europe's leading dual-use UAV company, has successfully raised €180 million in an extension of its Series C funding round. This investment not only triples the company's valuation but also highlights the competitive landscape in which US and European firms are striving to develop ad
Bulgaria is accelerating its efforts to integrate drone simulators across all army units by the end of the year. This initiative aims to enhance training and operational readiness, reflecting a broader trend in military modernization within Europe.
French company Elistair has unveiled a new tethered drone capable of operating continuously for 24 hours without battery swaps. This dual-payload drone is designed for various applications, enhancing surveillance and operational capabilities in defense and security sectors.
Ukraine
Analysis suggests drones complement, rather than replace, traditional firepower. Due to payload limitations and emerging defenses, heavy artillery and armor remain essential for future force structures.
War
The concept of a 'drone wall' to counter Russian aerial threats has emerged, raising questions about its practicality and effectiveness. This initiative aims to enhance European defense capabilities against drone incursions, particularly in Eastern Europe.
industry
French drone manufacturers are exploring potential contracts in Ukraine, driven by the ongoing conflict and the need for advanced aerial capabilities. However, uncertainty surrounding funding and support from the French government poses challenges for these companies.
Innovation
Drones are emerging as a vital tool in global reforestation initiatives, offering innovative solutions to tackle deforestation and promote biodiversity. Their ability to cover vast areas quickly and efficiently makes them a game-changer in environmental conservation efforts.
Local Players
Helsing opens its first UK Resilience Factory in Plymouth, focusing on autonomous underwater gliders to enhance maritime defense capabilities. The facility aims to create high-skilled jobs and strengthen European security through advanced AI technologies.
EU - European Union
EU member states are increasingly concerned about drone incursions into their airspace. In response, they are exploring options to expand the powers of Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, to better manage and mitigate these threats.
policy
Belgium's National Security Council has announced a plan for mandatory drone registration, aiming to enhance security. However, this initiative raises significant legal and technical challenges, diverging from existing EU regulations.
War
In a recent escalation, seven drones crossed into Moldova during a Russian overnight offensive on Ukraine. One drone crashed into a residential home, raising concerns about the spillover effects of the conflict. This incident underscores the growing risks associated with drone warfare in the region.
Local Players
Belgium has announced the acquisition of advanced drone-on-drone technology developed in Latvia. This strategic purchase aims to enhance Belgium's defense capabilities in the evolving landscape of unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
policy
Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže addresses the rising threat of Russian drone incursions in European airspace, emphasizing the urgency for enhanced EU defense measures and the implications of ongoing sanctions against Russia amid hybrid warfare concerns.
policy
At the Defending Baltics 2025 conference, EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius emphasized the urgent need for Europe to enhance its drone and counter-drone capabilities in light of escalating threats along NATO's eastern border.
balkans
Estonia is set to establish a comprehensive drone training program aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities. This initiative will focus on creating a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS).