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The European Union is ramping up its defence capabilities in response to escalating tensions with Russia, as outlined by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Speaking in Brussels, Kallas emphasized that the threat to Europe would persist even after the conclusion of the war in Ukraine. The EU’s comprehensive ‘defence roadmap’ aims to establish a fully operational anti-drone system by the end of 2027 and achieve full defence readiness by 2030. This initiative includes strengthening the EU’s eastern borders and developing European air and space ‘shields’ to counter potential Russian aggression. Kallas highlighted the transformative role of drones in modern warfare, stating that robust drone defences are now essential for all nations. The plan also calls for closing critical capability gaps in air and missile defence through joint development and procurement among member states. European Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius underscored the roadmap’s milestones, which are designed to deter Russian aggression, prevent conflict, and maintain peace. The EU’s executive Commission stressed the need for the 27-member bloc to be prepared to respond to high-intensity crises by 2030. The proposal, which requires approval at an upcoming leaders’ summit, has already garnered support from several EU states for a multi-layered ‘drone wall’ to detect, track, and destroy Russian drones. Recent incursions into the airspace of NATO members Poland, Romania, and Estonia have further heightened tensions, with experts suggesting that Russia is testing NATO’s resolve and attempting to sow discord within the alliance. In response, NATO members have bolstered their eastern flank with troops, artillery, and air defence systems. While no cost estimates were provided, Kubilius assured that the investments would not reach ‘hundreds of billions.’ The EU’s defence projects will be closely coordinated with NATO to avoid duplication of efforts.

In response to escalating concerns over potential security threats, the European Union has introduced a robust defense strategy aimed at fortifying the continent against external attacks by the end of the decade. The plan, announced on Thursday, comes amid growing apprehensions that Russia is actively testing Europe’s defenses. A central component of this initiative is the European Drone Defense Initiative, designed to detect, track, and neutralize unauthorized drones following a series of alarming airspace violations across Europe, particularly near borders with Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. This initiative is part of a broader framework called Eastern Flank Watch, which seeks to enhance defenses along Europe’s eastern borders, including land, sea, and air domains, as well as counter hybrid threats. The drone defense system is expected to be fully operational by late 2027, with Eastern Flank Watch reaching full capacity by the end of 2028. Additionally, the EU plans to develop separate air and space defense shields. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the urgency of bolstering European defense capabilities, stating that while Russia currently lacks the capacity to attack the EU, the threat remains persistent even if the Ukraine conflict ends. The European Commission’s Defense Readiness Roadmap 2030, set to be presented to EU leaders next week, outlines a comprehensive checklist of equipment procurement and deadlines for member states. The plan calls for significant funding, with EU defense spending projected to reach 3.4 trillion euros ($4 trillion) over the next decade. A key aspect of the roadmap is fostering collaboration among member states, with at least 40% of military purchases to be conducted jointly by 2027. The EU also aims to provide security guarantees for Ukraine, recognizing its role as Europe’s first line of defense. Kallas highlighted the goal of establishing a drone alliance with Ukraine by early next year, underscoring the importance of a strong Ukrainian defense industry and military.