The European Union's spending on drone surveillance and counter-drone technology under its Home Affairs funds has now passed half a billion euros. The latest boost, an additional €130 million, was announced by the European Commission at the Justice and Home Affairs Council on 1 October, with the aim of strengthening member states' ability to counter drone-related threats.
The money is intended to help national authorities and the EU's border agency respond to what the Commission describes as emerging security threats, from monitoring the EU's external borders to dealing with unauthorised or hostile drones.
How the funding has grown
The new allocation is the third in less than a year. It follows an initial €250 million announced in December 2025 and a further €169 million allocated earlier this year for the purchase of surveillance drones and related equipment.
The equipment is intended for use by Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, and by the member states.
Where the money comes from
The funds come from the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI) and form part of the EU's efforts to strengthen border surveillance and improve its response to emerging security threats.
According to the Commission, the funding will help member states:
strengthen their situational awareness, protect the EU's external borders more effectively, and address risks linked to unauthorised or hostile drone activity.
The Commission says the move is part of a broader objective of equipping national authorities with modern tools to strengthen both the EU's external borders and its internal security.
A wider plan for drone security
The funding builds on the EU Action Plan on Drone and Counter-Drone Security, presented by the Commission last February. The plan aims to protect airspace and critical infrastructure from malicious threats.
It also includes the creation of a Centre of Excellence for Countering Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, which will support innovation in the relevant systems.
Defence funds and joint procurement
The Commission notes that the new measure complements funding already available to member states through the European Defence Fund for the development of advanced drone and anti-drone technologies.
At the same time, under the SAFE programme, member states have committed to joint procurement of drone and anti-drone systems.
Source: CNA
