How NATO Is Solving Its Russian Drone Problem
Summary
NATO countries near Russia have faced many attacks from Russian drones over their airspace. Fighter jets have shot down several drones, but NATO is worried about the cost and efficiency of this method if attacks increase. The alliance is improving its air defense by adding more aircraft and ground systems and using better technology to defend against drone threats.Key Facts
- On a recent day, Romanian jets shot down two Russian drones over the Black Sea using missiles.
- NATO fighters have intercepted several Russian drones over Lithuania, Estonia, and Romania this year.
- Drones are cheaper than the missiles and jets used to destroy them, leading to high defense costs.
- NATO’s Eastern member nations experienced a sharp rise in drone intrusions, with Romania seeing 35 in 2026 so far.
- NATO launched Operation Eastern Sentry to strengthen air defenses along its eastern border more than a year ago.
- The operation added more fighter jets, surveillance planes, and ground air defense weapons to the region.
- In July 2026, NATO upgraded its air policing mission to a full air defense mission across the alliance.
- NATO commanders are now able to use a bigger mix of technology and resources to stop drones without always using fighter jets.
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