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EU officials have set a 2027 deadline for the development of an anti-drone system to bolster the bloc's defenses against Russia, amid escalating tensions over Moscow's ongoing war in Ukraine. European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas has emphasized that "drones are already redefining warfare" and that the EU needs a robust defense strategy to counter this threat.
The EU's "defence roadmap" proposes a multi-layered approach, including strengthening eastern borders, building air and space shields, and developing joint military capabilities with Nato. While no exact cost has been disclosed, Andrius Kubilius, European Defence Commissioner, downplayed concerns about the expense, stating that the focus should be on "deterrence" rather than "escalation".
Russia's actions in Ukraine have raised concerns that Moscow may seek to exploit divisions within Nato and test the alliance's capabilities. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied any aggressive intentions, but officials like Kallas are sounding a warning about the need for enhanced defenses.
Several EU member states have faced incursions into their airspace by Russian drones, with tensions escalating in recent weeks. Poland and Romania both reported drone breaches, while Estonia requested urgent consultations with other Nato members after its airspace was violated.
As the situation continues to unfold, Nato has taken steps to strengthen its eastern flank, deploying troops, artillery, and air defense systems to secure the region. The alliance is also working closely with the EU on this issue, with Commissioner Kallas emphasizing the need for "close co-ordination" between the two institutions.
The development of an anti-drone system by 2027 represents a significant escalation in the EU's efforts to counter Russia's military activities, and highlights the growing concern about drones' role in modern warfare.
The EU's "defence roadmap" proposes a multi-layered approach, including strengthening eastern borders, building air and space shields, and developing joint military capabilities with Nato. While no exact cost has been disclosed, Andrius Kubilius, European Defence Commissioner, downplayed concerns about the expense, stating that the focus should be on "deterrence" rather than "escalation".
Russia's actions in Ukraine have raised concerns that Moscow may seek to exploit divisions within Nato and test the alliance's capabilities. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied any aggressive intentions, but officials like Kallas are sounding a warning about the need for enhanced defenses.
Several EU member states have faced incursions into their airspace by Russian drones, with tensions escalating in recent weeks. Poland and Romania both reported drone breaches, while Estonia requested urgent consultations with other Nato members after its airspace was violated.
As the situation continues to unfold, Nato has taken steps to strengthen its eastern flank, deploying troops, artillery, and air defense systems to secure the region. The alliance is also working closely with the EU on this issue, with Commissioner Kallas emphasizing the need for "close co-ordination" between the two institutions.
The development of an anti-drone system by 2027 represents a significant escalation in the EU's efforts to counter Russia's military activities, and highlights the growing concern about drones' role in modern warfare.