The Drone Wall Proposal: Analyzing the Feasibility and Cost of a Multi Layered European Air Defense System Against Unidentified Threats

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has issued a stark warning to European Union leaders, urging them to develop a "very strong answer" to what she describes as Russia's ongoing "hybrid war" against the continent. Her call came as she hosted an informal EU summit in Copenhagen focused on boosting the bloc's collective security and defense capabilities amid increasing incursions and disruptive activity.

The Prime Minister explicitly linked a recent spate of mysterious drone incidents over Danish airports and military bases which forced airport closures and heightened security to a broader pattern of Russian destabilization efforts across Europe. While Danish authorities have not definitively named a culprit, Frederiksen stated, "There is only one country that is willing to threaten us, and it is Russia, and therefore we need a very strong answer back." She asserted that Europe is facing "the most difficult and dangerous situation since the end of the Second World War."

The Danish leader's call for a robust response centers on the need for urgent rearmament, innovation, and a united front against unconventional threats. She emphasized that the hybrid war is characterized by a mix of military means, such as drone incursions and airspace violations over NATO countries like Poland and Estonia, and non military tactics, including cyber attacks, sabotage targeting critical infrastructure, and disinformation campaigns aimed at sowing anxiety and division within European societies. The collective discussion among EU leaders highlighted the urgency to accelerate defense projects, specifically mentioning a proposed "drone wall" to detect, track, and ultimately neutralize such aerial threats.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, noting a clear "pattern" coming from Russia that is designed to "test us" and "sow division." The urgency of the talks is underscored by intelligence assessments suggesting that Europe must be prepared to fend off potential Russian aggression by 2030, a concern magnified by swirling doubts about the long term commitment of the United States to NATO. Leaders at the summit debated priority defense initiatives, which include securing the eastern flank, developing missile defenses, and creating a space "shield," in addition to the "drone wall." The meeting also addressed proposals to use frozen Russian assets to fund a major loan for Ukraine, further solidifying the EU's support for the country on the front line of the conflict. Frederiksen stressed the need for urgency, stating, "We are on our way, but we have to move much faster."