Air raid sirens resonate throughout Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities as Russian drones approach, often in significant numbers. The sound of anti-aircraft fire and explosions follows, illustrating the severe circumstances faced during night-time hours in the region. Drones, particularly those designed to detonate upon impact, have become crucial in modern warfare. Furthermore, unarmed drones have been spotted near airports, military installations, and power plants across Europe, raising concerns over potential “hybrid warfare” tactics employed by Russia, especially towards NATO member states aiding Ukraine.
Recent drone sightings in Poland and nearby countries have prompted discussions about a potential “drone wall” aimed at bolstering security in Europe. Notably, on September 9, 20 Russian drones crossed into Poland, leading to airport closures and the deployment of NATO jets. This incident marked a significant breach of NATO airspace and heightened concerns about drone threats to Europe.
Experts note that the calls for a drone wall stem from increasing incursions, with some questioning its realism and necessity. Drones, particularly larger variants capable of long-range flight, are seen as a more pressing issue compared to smaller, battlefield models. The production of drones like the Geran-2 by Russia furthers this concern. Analysts propose that an effective drone defense necessitates a comprehensive system comprising radars, jamming technologies, and interception capabilities.
Estimates suggest that initial defenses could be operational by 2027; however, funding sources remain uncertain, potentially involving a combination of national budgets and EU contributions. The complexity of achieving a reliable defense against evolving drone technology adds urgency to these discussions. The debate about targeting drone launch sites instead of merely erecting defenses reflects the challenging landscape of aerial security amid ongoing hostilities.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crkl3d6pegpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss