The EU is taking proactive action to combat the growing threat from drones. On Tuesday, the European Commission presented its action plan to counter what it calls “the increasing threats to EU security by drones.” In recent years, the EU says it has faced growing and multi-faceted challenges relating to drones and meteorological balloons. It says these include hostile overflights, airspace violations, disruptions to airports, as well as risks to our critical infrastructure, external borders and public spaces.

It has now come up with an Action Plan which, says the EU, represents an ambitious blueprint for stronger EU cooperation and solidarity. It will respond, it adds, to the calls from EU member states and the European Parliament for a united EU approach against threats posed by malicious drones. The plan, unveiled on Tuesday, focuses on the civilian internal security dimension, while complementing and supporting the work carried out in the defence domain by the Commission, and reinforcing civil-military synergies.

A Commission spokesman said: “In addition, the Action Plan contributes to the development of a competitive European drone market, unlocking the potential for innovation, growth and job creation across this important sector.” “The Action Plan is designed to support member states through coordinated actions, complementing national measures and focused on key priorities.

“It will enhance preparedness, boosting detection capacities, coordinating responses,” added the spokesman.