The European Union has confirmed plans to construct a “drone wall” aimed at protecting its eastern borders from Russian airspace violations.
Following a meeting with ministers from Central and Eastern European member states, along with Ukraine, EU Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius stressed that the drone wall is a “top priority and a key element” in strengthening Europe’s eastern defense.
Why the Drone Wall Is Needed
The initiative comes in response to a series of alarming airspace breaches:
- Poland recently reported 19 Russian drones flying across its territory, prompting urgent military action.
- Romania and Estonia have also recorded intrusions, with three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violating Estonian airspace.
- Denmark has experienced multiple drone incidents, including one at Copenhagen Airport, which forced a four-hour shutdown earlier this week.
These repeated incursions have raised concerns of a systematic hybrid attack by Moscow, although some cases remain unconfirmed. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen described the incidents as part of a “systematic operation,” while Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated she could not rule out Russian involvement.
Technology Behind the Defense
According to Kubilius, the wall will integrate:
- Advanced radar systems
- Acoustic sensors
- Drone interception and neutralization technology
However, Kubilius acknowledged the challenge of cost imbalance, noting:
“If you use a fighter jet missile costing €1 million to destroy a drone worth €10,000, the price asymmetry is evident.”
Strategic Importance
The “drone wall” project is seen as critical for preventing further destabilization along the EU’s eastern flank, particularly as tensions with Russia remain high following repeated violations.
