Thales Belgium escalates rocket production amid European drone crisis
- Numerous unexplained drone flights over European NATO members have recently escalated tensions.
- Thales Belgium is significantly increasing its production of rockets to aid Ukraine's defense against Russia.
- The situation underscores vulnerabilities in airspace security, prompting calls for improved detection and response measures across NATO.
In recent weeks, unexplained drone flights have sparked increased concerns across multiple NATO countries in Europe, especially along the eastern flank. The disruptions led to calls for rapid improvements in detection, tracking, and interception of UAVs violating airspace. These drone sightings have occurred near airports and military sites, depicting vulnerabilities in the security of both military and commercial operations. The situation is particularly tense, highlighting the risks to supply chains as businesses grapple with disruptions from these aerial intrusions. Thales Belgium has responded to this challenge by significantly increasing its production capacity of NATO-standard 70-mm caliber laser-guided rockets. Alain Quevrin, the country director for Thales Belgium, indicated that the expansion aims to meet the urgent demands posed by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where such arms are essential for Kyiv as it continues to fend off Russia's invasion. The company is racing to double its output of unguided and laser-guided FZ275 rockets in the coming years. Amid widespread speculation linking these drone activities to Russia, the latter has denied any involvement. In light of the urgency of the situation, NATO has initiated its "Eastern Sentry" plan aimed at strengthening defenses on its eastern borders, especially against drone threats. Belgium's Defense Minister has emphasized the need to accelerate efforts to address the crisis, stressing that while they are not officially at war, the current climate resembles a military crisis. NATO countries are unwavering in their support for Ukraine, and various ministers have voiced their concerns about the troubling implications of these drone incursions. They warn that certain actors may be attempting to undermine support for Ukraine, and it’s crucial for member nations to remain resolute in the face of intimidation. However, legal restraints complicate the implementation of drone countermeasures, as jamming UAVs poses risks to civilians and property on the ground, according to Thales’s Alain Quevrin.