Brussels: The European Commission has unveiled an ambitious set of defence projects aimed at strengthening the continent’s security by 2030, including a counter-drone system and a fortified eastern border, amid rising concerns over potential Russian aggression.
The proposals, outlined in a new defence policy roadmap, come as the war in Ukraine continues to reshape Europe’s security landscape. The plan seeks to ensure that the European Union is better prepared to defend itself without overreliance on external powers.
“Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends. It is clear we need to toughen our defences against Russia,” said EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas during a press conference.
Two of the four flagship projects have been marked as urgent: the European Drone Defence Initiative, designed to counter aerial threats, and Eastern Flank Watch, aimed at strengthening the EU’s eastern borders across land, air, and sea.
Today, we lay out Europe’s Defence Roadmap.
With clear objectives, European Flagships, and milestones on the path to 2030.
A strong, resilient and innovative EU defence industry will deliver the capabilities Europe needs.
Our work continues at the European Council next week.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) October 16, 2025
According to the Commission, both initiatives will achieve initial operational capacity by the end of next year. The drone defence system is expected to be fully functional by 2026, while Eastern Flank Watch will reach full capacity by late 2028.
The roadmap also includes a European Air Shield to guard against missiles and other airborne threats, and a European Space Shield to protect vital space assets and services.
Welcoming the announcement, Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal called the plan “a turning point in Europe’s security thinking- a plan to preserve peace through strength.”
The initiative will test the EU’s ability to take a more assertive role in defence. The Commission emphasised that the proposals are aligned with NATO’s capability targets and that EU member states will oversee their management.
Protecting Europe starts with being ready. 🛡️🇪🇺
We’re seeking to strengthen defence to keep everyone in our Union safe.
— European Commission (@EU_Commission) October 16, 2025
European Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius described the roadmap as “a mega-plan for delivery, with clear timetables, goals, and reporting obligations.” “That is why we can call today a delivery day — or a D-Day for delivery,” he remarked.
The Commission did not release cost estimates for the projects. Kubilius said EU member states would first finalise project details before determining financial requirements. Funding is expected to come from national defence budgets, which have grown steadily in recent years, and from EU mechanisms such as the €150 billion SAFE loans scheme introduced earlier this year to support defence investments.
The proposals will now be reviewed by leaders of the EU’s 27 member states, who must agree on implementation details and project leadership.
