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NATO defence ministers discuss counter-drone steps after airspace breaches

15.10.2025 20:30
NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels on Wednesday discussed enhancing the alliance's deterrence and defence posture, including through additional counter-drone measures, following a spate of recent airspace violations by drones and jets.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.Photo: EPA/OLIVIER HOSLET

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told reporters afterward: "NATO is a defensive alliance. We will remain a defensive alliance. But make no mistake – this defensive alliance is ready and willing to do what it takes to keep our one billion people safe and our territory secure."

The discussions highlighted increased defence investment and innovative adaptations to emerging threats, according to a report on NATO's website.

In response to recent incidents, the ministers agreed to implement additional counter-drone measures to expand NATO's capabilities, the report said.

This includes testing integrated counter-drone systems under the Eastern Sentry initiative, as well as fostering cooperation with the EU and the private sector for rapid innovation.

NATO said allies also discussed stepping up support to Ukraine, including during a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council with Ukraine Defence Minister Dmytro Shmyhal and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, and later in the afternoon at a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group.

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Source: IAR, PAPnato.int