The European Union is ramping up efforts to establish a new defense system known as the ‘drone wall’ to ensure reliable protection of the EU’s external borders. The first meeting on this issue was held by European Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius on September 26. Defense ministers from Eastern EU countries, including Finland, the Baltic states, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, as well as representatives from Hungary and Slovakia, who initiated their own participation, joined the discussion. Denmark was also present due to recent attacks, and Ukraine served as an expert on countering drones.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Key Elements of the Future ‘Drone Wall’
The project is based on a two-component system. The first component is an early detection system that will include a network of various detectors: radars, acoustic sensors, and other technological devices. It will allow for the timely detection of low-flying drones that are difficult to capture with standard means. Particular emphasis is placed on Ukraine’s experience, which demonstrates high effectiveness in countering drones.
“When we compare how Ukrainians are fighting against drone incursions and what capabilities we have, we can clearly say that we need to develop additional capabilities that may currently be lacking,” Kubilius stated.
Drone Neutralization Means: Modern Technologies and Classic Artillery
The second component of the project involves the use of means to destroy or neutralize drones. European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius highlighted three main directions: electronic warfare (EW), which is actively used in Ukraine to block drones; drone interceptors that demonstrate effectiveness on the battlefield; and classic means – anti-aircraft artillery, machine guns, and mobile response teams to address threats.
Particular attention is given to promising technologies – specifically, laser systems that are currently under development in certain EU countries. This approach aims to provide multi-layered protection against current and future aerial threats.
Next week, on October 1, during the informal summit of European Union leaders in Copenhagen, a broader discussion of the details of the ‘drone wall’ project and its funding is planned.