EU Advances 'Drone Wall' Plan to Protect Borders After Denmark Incidents
The EU is pushing ahead with plans for a 'drone wall' to protect its borders, following recent drone incursions. The project, initially focused on the eastern frontier, has gained broader interest after mystery drone flights over Denmark caused airport closures. However, financing remains a significant issue, with national governments currently footing the bill.
The 'drone wall' project aims to bolster Europe's defences against drone threats. EU leaders have given the green light to continue developing the plan, with the European Commission tasked with presenting a concrete proposal. The project's initial focus was on shoring up the EU's eastern frontier from threats perceived to come from Moscow. However, interest has broadened following recent drone incidents, such as those over Denmark.
The Baltic states, concerned about their proximity to Russia, have been pressing for enhanced anti-drone management. They argue that the effort should be a common one, with some Eastern European countries echoing this sentiment. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, however, has suggested a broader focus, aiming to construct a counter-threat 'ecosystem' from various areas.
Financing the project is a significant challenge. The EU Commission recently declined a 12 million euro funding proposal, leaving the project primarily financed by national governments. Estonia has allocated 12 million euros over three years, Latvia has invested 10 million euros in research contracts, and Lithuania has previously received 11 million euros from the EU for drones and anti-drone equipment. Officials caution that there are likely to be no complete solutions to protect the continent entirely from drone threats.
The EU is committed to advancing the 'drone wall' project, with a focus on collaboration and a broader defensive ecosystem. Financing remains a key issue, with national governments currently bearing the brunt of the costs. The EU wants to work with Ukraine, which has developed expertise in tackling Russian drones, to help with the project. Despite the challenges, EU leaders are determined to enhance Europe's defences against drone threats.
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