“If you want peace, prepare for war”: EU to use drones to protect eastern borders from Russia

The European Union is preparing to strengthen the bloc’s eastern borders by using drones.

This was stated by European Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius during a speech in the European Parliament.

He emphasized that the Kremlin’s provocations endanger people’s lives and peace in Europe, so it is necessary to act practically and effectively.

“We are not in a state of war, but we are not in a state of peace either. We need to admit that this may continue for years with provocations, disruptions, and sabotage. So, we are truly under attack. And we need to be ready for this […] Let us recall the ancient Roman proverb: “If you want peace, prepare for war,” the official is convinced.

However, he added that European forces are currently not prepared to detect drones and track them as they cross EU borders.

In addition, the European Union cannot use a missile costing up to a million euros to shoot down a drone worth 10,000 euros.

According to him, all of Europe is in danger, as the Russian Geran-2 drone has a flight range of up to 2,500 kilometers. This means that it can attack Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Hungary, and can also reach Brussels and Strasbourg.

Kulbius noted that in the short term, it is worth developing capabilities for better detection, tracking, and identification of drones using acoustic sensors, radar, and satellites.

Instead, in the future, we need to develop the ability to neutralize or destroy drones using drone interceptors, electronic warfare equipment, and mobile units.

“For the countries of the eastern flank, the ability to use drones to destroy ground targets is necessary if the enemy tries to invade. An individual approach is needed. The “frontline” countries have different needs compared to others, including the Mediterranean states,” the European Commissioner noted.

He believes that Europe should cooperate closely with Ukraine, whose air defense systems neutralize 70-80% of targets, and NATO countries.

“The key to an effective ‘Drone Wall’ is not only the technology itself, but also the advanced skills of integrated command and the creation of a comprehensive new ecosystem of combat operations. We need to move quickly from ideas to actions,” Kulbius concluded.

Recall that during the meeting of European leaders in Denmark , the central topic was the creation of a “drone wall” and strengthening the defense of Europe’s eastern flank .

As you know, the European Commission has proposed four defense projects , according to which the EU plans to counter Russian air aggression.

Also follow “Pryamim” on Facebook , Twitter , Telegram , and Instagram .