Germany expects an “arms race” in drone defence as threats evolve. The Federal Police is expanding its drone unit from 70 to 300 officers, after an explosive-laden drone was found at Leipzig airport earlier this month.
Sweden is conducting the Aurora 26 military exercise with NATO allies and Ukraine, focusing on the defence of Gotland and the Baltic Sea region. The drills involve 18,000 personnel and test allied reinforcement, logistics and drone warfare cooperation.
The German military plans to create six new units to operate kamikaze drones by 2029, with plans for a data-driven, AI-enabled battlefield. The Bundeswehr is testing loitering munitions and aims to field its first medium-range battery by 2027, with further long-range systems to follow.
Embraer has introduced a new operational concept for its A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, allowing operators to conduct counter-drone missions using existing sensors, data links, and weapons systems, building on the A-29’s existing features and requiring no major airframe modifications.
