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Modern warfare has evolved way beyond basic weapons, and unmanned drones are now central to conflict. The EU is increasing drone production to defend Europeans against these changing threats.
Recent wars, like Ukraine and Iran, show that drones are used in large numbers and quickly depleted. But European countries still rely heavily on foreign suppliers for drones, creating strategic vulnerability.
The EU wants to reduce this dependence by building its own industrial capacity, and introducing new funding programs to support drone manufacturing, like the European Defence Industry Programme. It’s also coming up with new subsidies to boost key components used in drone systems, and faster funding mechanisms to support startups and innovation.
A key priority is drones. Drone have become a priority and the EU is rushing to develop and test new technologies, by working with partners like Ukraine, to build joint initiatives and to create a shared industrial ecosystem for production.
It’s also investing in systems to detect and stop hostile drones, and developing new standards to ensure drones are secure and reliable. Expanded surveillance programs will use drones to monitor borders and infrastructure.
Can the EU shift from regulation to large-scale production, to strengthen its defense capabilities? Our poll is anonymous and takes just a few seconds to complete. The results will feature across the EU. XL coverage -in videos, articles, and newsletters- and will help shape our reporting as we explore how Europe can secure its place in the age of artificial intelligence**.**
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