European Commission presented action plan against drones

AIDA CCI informs that the European Commission has presented a strategic action plan to counter the growing threat that drones pose to European Union security. This ambitious roadmap focuses on preparedness, detection, and coordinated response to civil and military threats.

In recent years, the EU has faced multi-faceted challenges, including airspace violations and risks to critical infrastructure. The new plan responds to calls from Member States for a united approach against the malicious use of drones, while simultaneously promoting a competitive and innovative European market.

Strategic Pillars of the Action Plan

The plan focuses on four fundamental priorities to strengthen European resilience:

Improving Preparedness: Creation of a new EU counter-drone centre of excellence and development of the “EU-Trusted Drone” label.
Strengthening Detection: Leveraging 5G networks and AI software for real-time identification of malicious drones and the creation of an incident platform.
Coordinating Responses: Organisation of annual large-scale counter-drone exercises and support for joint public procurement of defence systems.
Defence Readiness: Launch of the European Drone Defence Initiative and strengthening industrial cooperation through the Drone Alliance with Ukraine.

Industrial Impact and Funding

With a planned investment of EUR 400 million in drone and counter-drone technologies, the Commission aims to accelerate industrial production and technological sovereignty. This effort includes a coordinated civil-military industrial mapping to attract investment and promote interoperability among Member States.

Featured Quote

“Drone and counter-drone capabilities are central components in Europe’s defence and the security of critical infrastructure. We have the talent, technology, and industrial strength to protect our assets.”

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission

Next Steps

The Commission will launch discussions with Member States and the European Parliament for the implementation of these actions. The appointment of National Drone Security Coordinators is recommended to oversee execution at the national level and ensure the protection of borders and public spaces.

CONSULT OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE