EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that a new anti-drone system is set to become fully operational by the end of 2027. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance defenses against potential threats from Russia, with a goal of being fully prepared for possible conflicts by 2030. Kallas remarked on the importance of drone defenses in today’s warfare context, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and concerns about its intentions toward EU member states.
The European Commission’s defense roadmap also aims to strengthen the EU’s eastern borders and establish comprehensive air and space defense systems. Given previous incursions into the airspaces of several European nations, there are increasing calls for stronger self-defensive measures, including support from US officials.
Multiple Western intelligence agencies have cautioned that Russia might continue its aggressive posturing following the conclusion of the war in Ukraine. Kallas emphasized that the risk remains significant even after potential peace agreements. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has indicated during discussions with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders that the US may consider providing Ukraine with long-range missiles if conflict persists.
European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius reaffirmed that the defense strategy outlines critical milestones aimed at enhancing readiness by 2030 to counter Russian aggression. The EU has stated its aim to be capable of effectively responding to crises, including high-intensity conflicts, and highlighted the necessity of closing key capability gaps in areas such as air defense and artillery.
Although the defense roadmap awaits approval from EU member states at an upcoming leaders’ summit, several countries have already shown support for developing a multi-layered drone defense system. Tensions between the EU and Russia have escalated, following reports of Russian drones breaching the airspaces of NATO members like Poland, Romania, and Estonia. In response, some NATO countries have bolstered their military presence in the region. Russia maintains that its military operations were conducted in compliance with international regulations.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gz2ppye5zo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss