Brussels: NATO announced on Wednesday that it has started implementing additional measures to strengthen its defenses against drone threats, calling for increased coordination with the European Union (EU) to ensure the success of these efforts. Speaking at a press conference in Brussels following a meeting of NATO defense ministers, Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the Alliance is "raising its level of vigilance and reinforcing its defensive posture along the eastern flank," which includes the recently launched Eastern Sentry initiative in the Baltic Sea.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the NATO chief mentioned ongoing tests for "integrated systems to detect, track and neutralize aerial threats," highlighting the use of procurement mechanisms to develop cost-effective and efficient counter-drone capabilities.
As part of the new measures, he noted that NATO would not engage any aircraft in its airspace unless it "poses a threat," in which case, "our forces have full authority to respond immediately," added the official.
He further stated that NATO and the EU are working closely together, with relations described as "functioning smoothly and effectively." He also emphasized the Alliance's readiness to "protect the safety" of its one billion citizens and the security of its territory.