European leaders are advancing plans for a “drone wall” to protect the EU’s eastern flank from potential Russian threats, responding to calls from the Baltic states. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the initiative as “the bedrock of credible defence,” while EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has proposed convening defence ministers to discuss implementation after recent Russian drone incursions over Polish airspace.
The Baltic Drone Wall is a collaborative effort involving Poland, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. At its core is Eirshield, a multilayered anti-drone system jointly developed by Estonia’s DefSecIntel and Latvia’s Origin Robotics. The platform uses radars, cameras, and AI-driven detection to identify hostile drones and respond automatically—jamming signals, deploying intercepting drones, or using third-party gun systems. Designed to counter fast-flying drones carrying warheads at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, the system includes portable components for flexible deployment. Its cost per interception is significantly lower than conventional air defence systems, which were not designed for emerging drone threats.
While already deployed in Ukraine, Eirshield requires adaptation for NATO standards and peacetime operations in the Baltics. Proposed modifications include non-lethal interception methods, such as nets or small drones, to avoid unintended damage. National militaries will determine which detection and interception tactics are employed. The system is intended to complement, not replace, traditional air defence measures.
Funding remains a challenge. A €12 million EU proposal from Estonia and Lithuania was rejected in August, though all three Baltic states have allocated national resources: Estonia committed €12 million over three years, Latvia awarded €10 million in research contracts, and Lithuania earmarked €3 million for anti-drone equipment from prior EU funds. Demonstrations of the system are planned, but broader European integration will depend on further political and military coordination.
