European leaders are advancing plans for a “drone wall” along the EU’s eastern flank to counter potential Russian threats. Proposed by the Baltic states, the initiative gained prominence after Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as “the bedrock of credible defence” in her September 10 State of the Union address. EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has since indicated plans to convene EU defence ministers to discuss implementation.
The core of the project is Eirshield, a multilayered anti-drone system developed by Estonian company DefSecIntel and Latvian firm Origin Robotics. Using radars, cameras, radio-frequency detectors, and AI, the system can automatically detect, track, and neutralise hostile drones—either by jamming signals, deploying interceptor drones, or engaging targets with gun systems. Eirshield is designed to handle fast, unmanned targets flying over 200 km/h and can be partially portable. Its cost-per-use is in the tens of thousands of euros, significantly lower than conventional air defence systems designed for missiles or manned aircraft.
While already deployed in Ukraine, adaptations are needed for NATO standards and peacetime operation in the Baltics, including non-lethal interception methods like nets or small drones. National militaries will determine the tactical mix for detection and engagement. The drone wall is intended to complement, not replace, existing air defence systems.
Funding remains a key challenge. The EU Commission rejected a €12 million joint proposal from Estonia and Lithuania in August, though the three Baltic nations have committed national budgets: Estonia allocated €12 million over three years, Latvia awarded €10 million in research contracts, and Lithuania dedicated €3 million from prior EU funds to anti-drone equipment. Demonstrations of the system are planned, but wider European adoption will depend on further government engagement.
