EU sets 2027 target for anti-drone system to defend against Russia

It is part of a new drive for the 27-member European Union to be ready for conflict by 2030.

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"Drones are already redefining warfare. Having drone defences is no longer optional for anyone," Kallas said, referring to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and fears that Moscow may attack the EU.

The European Commission's "defence roadmap" also proposes strengthening the EU's eastern borders and building air and space "shields".

Several EU nations have faced Russian incursions into their airspace and US President Donald Trump has urged the bloc to do more to defend itself.

The European defence plan comes amid growing European fears that Russia will continue its westward aggression after the war in Ukraine is over, as well as continued ambiguity over Trump's long-term commitment to European security.