The European Commission has introduced an action plan aimed at addressing the threats posed by hostile drones, which include the establishment of an EU center focused on drone combat and initiatives to bolster Europe’s domestic drone industry. Following reports of drone incursions in several EU countries, including Germany, Belgium, and Denmark during the autumn, the Commission seeks to enhance strategies for both preventing and responding to these threats.

The action plan proposes the creation of a voluntary ‘anti-drone system’ intended to assist member states in safeguarding their airspace against drone infringements. It also emphasizes the importance of having ready-to-deploy police forces to respond effectively to incidents involving drones. Henna Virkkunen, the Commissioner responsible for this initiative, highlighted that any technology can be weaponized, indicating the pressing need for robust anti-drone capabilities as critical components of Europe's defense infrastructure.

In addition to improving security measures, the action plan underlines the significance of developing a competitive European drone market. By fostering innovation and bolstering existing capacities within Europe, the Commission aims not only to defend against current threats but also to position the continent as a leader in drone technology and its applications. This move could have significant implications for Europe's strategic defense posture and its response mechanisms to emerging threats in the airspace.