Particle.news
Download on the App Store
12 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

EU Unveils Defence Roadmap, Fast-Tracks Drone Shield by 2027

Member states are being asked to endorse the plan at an upcoming summit.

Eine russische FPV-Drohne.
Kallas auf einer Pressekonferenz in Brüssel
Image
Image

Overview

  • The European Commission presented four flagship projects — the European Drone Defence Initiative, Eastern Flank Watch, European Air Shield and a Defence Space Shield — to strengthen EU capabilities through 2030.
  • Parts of the EU drone-defence system are slated to be operational by the end of 2026 with full capability in 2027, while Eastern Flank measures aim for initial readiness next year and completion by 2028.
  • Germany offered to lead the European Air Shield and announced about €10 billion in drone investments, with the air-defence architecture intended to mesh with NATO command and control.
  • The roadmap calls for collective procurement to reach roughly 40% of defence purchases by the end of 2027 and emphasizes NATO coordination as several governments voice concerns about duplication and extra EU rules.
  • The push follows recent drone-related airspace disruptions across Europe and intelligence warnings about Russia’s potential by 2030, with financing expected from member states and existing EU programs.