Report from the International Institute for Strategic Studies
A report released Thursday by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) suggests that Russia likely employed ships from its shadow fleet to deploy drones over Europe. According to the findings, 144 suspicious drone sightings were recorded across NATO countries between 2024 and 2026. The surge in sightings at the end of 2025 led to temporary closures of several European airports, including those in Germany, Spain, and Denmark.
IISS analysts mapped the movements of shadow fleet vessels and focused on drone incidents in Central and Northwestern Europe. These unmanned aircraft disrupted civilian aviation, conducted surveillance on military installations, and tested NATO’s air defense systems. The sightings occurred in the following countries:
- Germany
- France
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- United Kingdom
- Denmark
Additionally, on December 2, the vessel 'Vezen' was positioned off the coast of Ireland and has been linked to damage inflicted on an undersea cable in the Baltic Sea. Another ship with a non-functioning signal transmission system was located near the 'Vezen.' Drones were detected in areas close to Russian shadow fleet ships, particularly near Danish waters. The report indicates that Moscow spent nearly two years probing allied responses with drones, yet the Alliance failed to mount a collective reaction.
Threat Analysis and Recommendations
The IISS report does not analyze incidents along NATO’s eastern flank, pointing to potential gaps in understanding threats emerging in that region. Drone surveillance and Russian activities in this context require further investigation and heightened attention from NATO member states.
The situation outlined in the IISS report underscores the growing risks associated with drone technology and its military applications, which could have serious implications for European security.
It is critical for NATO countries to strengthen their surveillance and response systems to counter potential threats from Russia. Ongoing monitoring and analysis of shadow fleet operations are also necessary to effectively address emerging challenges in the global security landscape.
As tensions rise, the implications of drone activities are becoming increasingly significant. Recent reports indicate that NATO has raised alarms about potential Russian provocations targeting the Baltics or Poland, highlighting the need for vigilance among member states in response to evolving threats in the region.