Drone protection system for guarding the border with Russia
The European Union plans to create a drone protection system for guarding 2700 km of border with Russia. This move is driven by the economic and technological challenges posed by the use of cheap Russian drones, particularly Iranian 'Shahed' drones. The cost of one 'Shahed' drone is approximately $35,000, and its range reaches 2000 km, which poses serious threats to the security of the region.
Necessary technologies and investments
To implement the 'drone wall' project, Europe may need 200 radar installations. The total cost of these installations is estimated at around $100 million. Additionally, to cover the territory of Poland, 400 electro-optical and infrared sensors may be required, each costing tens of thousands of dollars. The use of the Atlas system from the Ukrainian company Kvertus is also planned, with a cost of $140 million.
Among the possible options for protection against 'Shahed' drones are:
- the Roadrunner interceptor from the American group Anduril, costing several hundred thousand dollars;
- stockpiles of MBDA Taurus cruise missiles, which cost €3.5 million each.
These measures aim to enhance security at the border with Russia and counter potential aerial threats.
The planned measures indicate the growing concern of European Union countries regarding security amid tensions with Russia. Investments in new technologies for border protection could be an important step in ensuring stability in the region and protecting against new threats. Moreover, this could stimulate the development of defense technologies in EU countries and enhance cooperation among member states of the bloc.