The European Union Accelerates Plans to Build a Drone Defense Shield

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that the bloc has no choice but to develop advanced defenses against drones, considering that this technology has completely changed the nature of wars.

He explained that the new European project aims to create a comprehensive drone defense system, with initial operations expected to start by the end of 2026, and full service in 2027.  

The initiative is part of what is known as the "2030 Preparedness Roadmap," a European plan aimed at equipping the continent for any potential confrontation with Russia in the coming years.

Last month, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for the establishment of what she described as a "wall against drones," following the incident of a Russian drone being shot down in Poland by NATO forces.  

While the initial focus was on strengthening the defenses of Eastern European Union countries, the plan has expanded to include other countries after mysterious breaches of their airspace were recorded in the west.

Brussels hopes that this initiative will receive support from EU leaders during the upcoming summit, considering it a key step to enhance Europe's security in the face of unconventional aerial threats.