EU boosts drone, counter-drone capabilities with $145M funding

The European Commission announced an additional €130 million ($145 million) in funding Monday to strengthen EU member states’ drone and counter-drone capabilities and bolster security at the bloc’s external borders.

The funding, provided under the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI), is part of broader EU efforts to improve border surveillance and respond to emerging security threats, according to a statement.

The new allocation comes on top of €250 million announced in December 2025 and a further €169 million made available earlier this year for surveillance drones and related equipment for the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, known as Frontex, and EU member states.

The latest funding brings the total available under EU Home Affairs funds for surveillance and counter-drone technology to more than €500 million, according to the statement.

The funding will support member states in strengthening situational awareness, protecting the EU’s external borders and addressing risks associated with unauthorized or hostile drone activity.

The bloc said the additional support forms part of broader efforts to equip national authorities with modern technologies to strengthen border management and enhance internal security.