European leaders are exploring the creation of a “drone wall” to protect the EU’s eastern flank after Russian drones crossed into Polish airspace. The plan, backed by Baltic states and recently highlighted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to build a multilayered defence system along the borders of Poland, Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
At the core of the project is Eirshield, an AI-powered anti-drone system developed by Estonian firm DefSecIntel and Latvian company Origin Robotics. The platform uses radars, cameras, and frequency detectors to classify threats before jamming signals, deploying counter-drones, or even striking hostile drones. Unlike conventional missile defence systems, Eirshield costs tens of thousands of euros per use, making it a cheaper option against fast, low-flying drones like those seen in Ukraine.
Parts of the system are already in operation on the battlefield, but officials stress modifications will be needed to meet NATO standards and adapt for peacetime. This could involve non-lethal options such as netting or neutralising drones without explosions.
Despite its potential, funding remains uncertain. The European Commission rejected a €12m funding request for the project in August, though Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have since pledged their own budgets—over €30m combined—for research and deployment. Defence commissioner Andrius Kubilius plans to gather EU defence ministers to discuss whether to expand and coordinate the project across the bloc.
For now, the technology is being demonstrated to governments, but the central question remains: will Europe commit the resources needed to turn the Baltic Drone Wall from a regional initiative into a continental shield?
