News: The European Union launched a “drone wall” along its eastern flank after recent airspace violations by Russia.
About Drone Wall Initiative
Source – Table Media
Drone Wall Initiative
It is a cutting-edge defense strategy being adopted by the European Union (EU) and several NATO countries to counter escalating airspace violations, particularly from Russian drones.
The initiative is created to close these gaps by building a two-fold shield: detection first, then intervention.
It focuses on early warning and fast response so that cheap, low-altitude drones cannot disrupt airports, public spaces, or borders.
It forms the core of Eastern Flank Watch, which also plans a ground wall and a maritime wall.
First proposed by Lithuania in 2023.
Initiative by
It is formally launched by the E.U. on bloc’s eastern borders.
Objective/Aim
The objective is to detect, track, and intercept drones.
It aims to protect EU and NATO airspace and counter provocations, hybrid attacks, smuggling, and instrumentalized migration.
Finance
Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument will provide €150 billion in low-interest loans under the EU defence programme.
The EU has pledged €6 billion for a Drone Alliance with Ukraine.
The European Commission will create an EU financial toolbox to support the project.
Technology used
It will use radars; acoustic and radio-frequency sensors; infrared cameras; signal jammers; interceptors; traditional artillery.
Effectors will be modular and scalable, including kinetic interception and nets.
Implication
Civil Aviation & Infrastructure: It reduces airport disruptions and protects public spaces and critical facilities from low-altitude drones.
EU–NATO Coordination: It improves compatibility with NATO systems and builds shared situational awareness across allies.
Border & Hybrid Threats: It strengthens external border management and counters provocations, smuggling, and instrumentalized migration.
Post-Mains Strategy Session by Mr. Ayush Sinha | ForumIAS
Stay Ahead in Your UPSC Journey!
Just a few details to keep you updated with free compilations, test papers, and strategy materials from ForumIAS. You’ll get instant access to this download and more resources like it.
🎯 Join 50,000+ aspirants who download and learn with ForumIAS every week!