Baltics denied funding for AI drone defence systems

Refusal to fund defence project

The European Commission rejected the request from Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia for €500 million. These funds were intended for the development of a counter-unmanned aerial vehicle system utilising artificial intelligence technologies. The initiative was set to serve as a model for other European Union member states against the backdrop of a rising number of incidents involving UAV incursions.

Reason for the decision

As noted by European Commissioner for Defence Kubilius, providing additional funding is impossible because the current budget period is coming to an end. However, the allocation of smaller amounts under other programmes remains possible.