Coverage of UAV adoption, defense modernization, and emerging drone markets in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, and Serbia.
balkans
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.
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.
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).
Local Players
Redwire is boosting Croatia's border security with Penguin C VTOL drones. Funded by the EU, these runway-independent aircraft will patrol the Schengen gateway. Their advanced cameras provide real-time surveillance to spot threats while keeping travel smooth for legitimate visitors.
War
Following a Russian drone strike on a gas vessel at a Ukrainian port, Romania has evacuated a border village due to safety concerns. The attack raises alarms about regional security and the potential for further escalation in the ongoing conflict.
balkans
The recent discovery of Russian drone debris in Romania has heightened security concerns in Eastern Europe. This incident underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the potential risks associated with military operations near NATO borders.
War
Following recent Russian airstrikes, Romania has located drone fragments on its territory, raising concerns about the implications for regional security and the potential for increased military tensions along the Ukraine border.
Innovation
Bulgaria is set to equip its military units with advanced drone simulators and expand its unmanned systems capabilities. This initiative aims to bolster the country's defense readiness and operational efficiency in the face of evolving security challenges in Europe.
balkans
Croatia is set to enhance its border security by deploying drones for aerial surveillance. This initiative aims to bolster monitoring capabilities and improve response times to illegal crossings and other border-related incidents.
policy
Romanian officials are urging the US to reverse its troop withdrawal decision, citing concerns over NATO unity and heightened Russian aggression. The withdrawal of 800 troops comes at a critical time for regional security, as NATO grapples with air defense gaps and increasing threats from Russia.
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.
Innovation
Croatia has initiated a new phase in traffic surveillance by deploying police drones. This advancement aims to enhance public safety and improve traffic management across the nation.