A senior NATO official is calling for the rapid deployment of counter-drone systems within the alliance to address the growing threat of Russian drones violating NATO airspace. The call comes amidst increasing concerns over recent incursions into Polish and Romanian airspace, as well as overflights by Russian fighter jets over Estonia.
„Field Now, Not in Years”
Gen. Ingo Gerhartz, commander of NATO Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, emphasized the urgency of the situation at the Warsaw Security Forum, stating that counter-drone technology „is something we really have to field now, not in years. It has to be fielded in months, in a multi-domain approach.” He urged NATO, the European Union, and individual nations to accelerate the acquisition of counter-drone systems.
Cost-Effective Solutions Needed
Gerhartz also highlighted the need for cost-effective solutions, pointing out that shooting down cheap drones costing $2,000 to $3,000 with million-dollar missiles is neither effective nor sustainable.
Eastern Sentry and Enhanced Air Defenses
In response to Russia’s drone incursion into Poland, NATO launched Eastern Sentry to bolster air defenses across its Eastern Flank, deploying weapon systems from Britain, Denmark, France, and Germany. While acknowledging the positive impact of increased assets in the region, Gerhartz stressed the need for additional equipment, including low-cost sensors and effectors.
Condemnation and Allied Support
The foreign ministers of France, Germany, and Poland issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s „reckless, hostile acts.” In a coordinated effort to enhance security, France, Germany, and Sweden have agreed to provide Denmark with counter-drone systems for an upcoming European Council (EC) meeting in Copenhagen.
This allied support follows Denmark’s temporary ban on civilian drone flights over its airspace after a series of drone sightings and related incidents involving military bases and airports.
When asked about Denmark’s preparedness for the EC summit, Gerhartz deferred to Danish authorities but assured that NATO is ready to defend against future Russian incursions involving „missiles or aircraft or whatever.”
Integration over Standardization
Responding to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s call for a 400 percent increase in air and missile defense capabilities, Gerhartz expressed confidence that the goal could be met „very soon.” He emphasized that it „doesn’t matter” if NATO members choose different air defense systems, as long as the platforms can be integrated.
Lack of Preparedness for Mass Drone Attacks
Speaking alongside Gerhartz, Ben Hodges, former Commander of US Army Europe, warned that NATO has not „mentally prepared” for daily Russian drone strikes involving „hundreds” of aircraft. He suggested that NATO’s lack of response to smaller drone incursions signals a lack of concern to Russia.
