Europe ramps up defenses after drone incursions
After suspected Russian drones violated NATO airspace in recent weeks, European allies are accelerating counter‑drone measures: Sweden announced about $370 million for interceptors, jammers and weapons; Germany’s cabinet advanced a draft law letting police shoot down dangerous drones; Denmark reported airport closures and is intensifying inspections of Russia’s shadow oil fleet. NATO is exploring a ‘drone wall’ across six eastern‑flank countries, while two British surveillance aircraft flew a 12‑hour mission along Russia’s border supported by U.S. and NATO forces.
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📌 Key Facts
- Sweden to spend roughly $370 million on counter‑drone systems (weapons, interceptors, jamming sensors).
- Germany’s cabinet approved a draft law authorizing police to shoot down drones posing immediate threats.
- NATO warplanes shot down several Russian drones over Poland; Denmark saw airport closures and drones near a key air base.
- Two UK surveillance aircraft flew a 12‑hour mission Thursday along Russia’s border with U.S./NATO support.
- A six‑country ‘drone wall’ plan remains unfunded by the EU, officials say.
📚 Contextual Background
- Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 (commonly dated 2022-02-24).