Report: EU Proposes Creation of “Drone Wall” on Eastern Border
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for the creation of a “drone wall” on the EU’s eastern flank to strengthen borders with Russia.
“There is no doubt: Europe’s eastern flank keeps all of Europe safe. From the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. This is why we must invest in supporting it through an Eastern Flank Watch,” von der Leyen told lawmakers at a European Parliament session, according to Politico.
The plan includes developing independent strategic capabilities, such as a satellite-based Earth monitoring network, and deploying drones along the borders. Politico said the concept of a “drone wall” envisages constant drone patrols to detect threats.
Von der Leyen’s remarks came hours after Poland scrambled fighter jets to intercept Russian drones that entered its airspace.
Poland, Estonia, and Lithuania have repeatedly urged the EU to invest in border protection, securing some of the largest loans under the SAFE program. Poland received €43.7 billion, while Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia jointly received €14.7 billion, part of which may be used to buy drones for the “drone wall.”
The program allows up to 35% of funds to be spent on equipment outside the European Economic Area, opening the door for purchases of reconnaissance, combat, and air-defense drones from Ukraine.
Border defenses
At the same time, Poland and the Baltic states are pursuing their own border-strengthening projects in response to growing threats from Russia and Belarus.
Poland’s “Eastern Shield” includes fortifications, forward bases, logistics hubs, and engineering solutions for rapid troop deployment. Tested barriers and infrastructure are being adapted to local terrain. The system is designed to serve both as a physical obstacle and a platform for modern surveillance and drone deployment.
The Baltic Defence Line, a joint initiative of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, aims to build a continuous line of defense along their eastern borders. Hundreds of fortified bunkers are planned by 2025, serving as strongholds for ground forces. The project also includes anti-tank ditches, field fortifications, and dispersed ammunition storage. Construction began in Estonia in the summer of 2024, in Latvia in May 2024, and in Lithuania later that summer.
