Copenhagen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Union leaders will convene in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Wednesday to discuss plans for a “drone wall” aimed at safeguarding the continent. This meeting comes just days after unidentified unmanned aircraft caused airspace intrusions that led to a temporary shutdown of Danish airports.
The gathering follows the drone incursions that have become most critical for countries on the EU’s eastern flank, such as Poland and Estonia. Ten member nations have already approved plans for a multi-layered “drone wall” to detect quickly, then track and eliminate Russian drones.
What topics will the leaders cover in the meeting?
Denmark will also host a broader European Political Community summit on Thursday, and international allies have lent support to ensure both events pass without incident.
At the summit, the leaders will review proposals for four major defense initiatives, including a “drone wall”—a system of sensors and weapons designed to detect, track, and neutralize intruding unmanned aircraft.
As reported, the summit will also serve as the first chance for leaders from the EU’s 27 countries to discuss a proposal to leverage frozen Russian assets in Europe for a 140 billion euro loan to Ukraine.
The recent drone incursion incidents have led European leaders to intensify their calls for strengthening the continent’s defences and increasing support for Ukraine in its battle against Russia’s invasion.
Which countries are contributing anti-drone and surveillance support?
Denmark has increased security measures before the summit, prohibiting all civilian drone flights until Friday and imposing strict traffic restrictions in Copenhagen.
Denmark’s military reports that ten allies are offering anti-drone and surveillance support, noting an “increased presence of foreign troops and equipment”. Contributing countries include Poland, the UK, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, and the US. Additionally, a German frigate has arrived in Copenhagen.
What recent disruptions have drones caused at Danish airports?
The incidents happened following the closure of Copenhagen Airport, Scandinavia’s busiest, on Monday evening due to drone activity. Drones were subsequently observed at Aalborg, Esbjerg, and Sonderborg airports, along with Skrydstrup air base, prompting a swift response from authorities.
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen called the incident “the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date.” Denmark notified NATO allies that unidentified “state actors” were responsible for drone incursions, resulting in airport closures.
