European Union: European Commission adopted action plan on drone and counter drone security

On 11 February 2026, the European Commission adopted the Action Plan on Drone and Counter-Drone Security to establish a coordinated approach to drone threats across the European Union. The plan covers five areas. It includes public procurement measures, such as a voluntary EU counter-drone joint and cross-border purchasing initiative, including technologies for protecting critical infrastructure. It sets out measures to increase research and development in counter-drone technology, including removing regulatory obstacles to drone testing through sandboxes and establishing joint research centres. The plan introduces counter-drone certification systems and establishes interoperability requirements for drone and counter-drone producers through alignment of civil and military standards. It also provides for the production of drones and counter-drone systems at scale using the Industrial Accelerator Act, joint deployment of counter-drone capacities, and the European Defence Industry Programme. The plan responds to member states’ requests for cooperation regarding unregistered or malicious drones affecting critical infrastructure, maritime areas, and public spaces. It includes provisions for international cooperation, particularly with Ukraine and neighbouring partners, to establish early alert mechanisms and share technical information on unmanned threat management.