Coverage of EU and national drone policies, strategic frameworks, and government initiatives shaping UAV governance and defense readiness.
EU - European Union
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.
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.
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.
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.
baltics
Lithuania has announced plans to develop technologies aimed at countering drones and balloons within a six-month timeframe. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance national security and address emerging aerial threats, reflecting a growing concern among European nations.
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.
defense
The concept of a 'drone wall' has emerged as a potential solution to counter Russian incursions into EU airspace. This strategy aims to bolster aerial defenses through the deployment of advanced drone technologies, enhancing surveillance and deterrence capabilities.
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.
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.