The European Commission has released its Action Plan on Drone and Counter-Drone Security, aiming to provide a coordinated EU-wide response to threats posed by malicious drones.
The plan supports Member States by complementing national measures and focuses on four key priorities:
- enhancing preparedness,
- strengthening detection capabilities,
- coordinating response measures, and
- boosting Europe’s defence readiness.
The initiative will reinforce the European drone ecosystem, promoting collaboration between governments and industry through the Drone Alliance with Ukraine. It aims to accelerate the development of cost-effective defence technologies and speed up production, forming the foundation for the European Drone Defence Initiative and the Eastern Flank Watch, flagship projects outlined in the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030.
EU funding programmes, including Horizon Europe, the European Defence Fund, the European Defence Industry Programme, and SAFE loans, will continue to support the technological development of drones and counter-drone capacities.
Next steps include discussions with Member States on the proposed actions, establishing strategic coordination mechanisms, and working closely with industry and the European Parliament. The Commission also recommends that Member States appoint National Drone Security Coordinators to oversee implementation at the national level.
European Commission. (2026, February 11). Commission publishes Action Plan on drone and counter-drone security. Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space.
Source: European Commission