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6d ago

NATO Deploys AI-Powered Merops Anti-Drone System to Poland and Romania

The initial deployments kick off a plan to build a layered Eastern Flank deterrence network linking sensors, command systems, interchangeable hardware.

US-Mexico Border - stock photo
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 14: A downed Iranian-made Shahed-136 attack drone, used by Russia in Ukraine, is unveiled at the Houses of Parliament on October 14, 2025 in London, England. The event was organised by United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), a US-based organisation that aims to combat the threat of Iran's nuclear programme, and was intended to highlight the Iranian regime's role in Russia's aggression in Europe. The drone is the same weapon Russia has used extensively against Ukraine, where Russia has allegedly deployed 38,000 drones in 2025 alone. Last month, Polish and NATO forces had to intercept different kinds of Russian drones - some of which appeared to be decoys - that entered Poland’s airspace, which led Poland to trigger NATO's Article 4, underscoring the perceived threat to European security.  (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Military officials say Merops detects and intercepts low, slow drones using AI guidance that functions when GPS and communications are jammed.
  • Initial units are being positioned along the Polish and Romanian borders after incursions that included about 20 drones entering Polish airspace in early September.
  • Denmark has decided to acquire the technology as authorities respond to incidents that also temporarily shut airports in Copenhagen, Munich, Berlin and Brussels.
  • NATO officers say the system provides accurate detection and far cheaper intercepts than scrambling fighter jets with missiles.
  • Selection was influenced by successful use in Ukraine, and officials project a two-to-five-year buildout of a broader integrated defense as Russia accelerates drone production; former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is an investor.