NATO's Urgent Anti-Drone Drills Highlight Ukraine's First Participation Amidst Rising Threats

NATO concluded a significant anti-drone exercise involving over 20 nations and 50 companies, with Ukraine participating for the first time. The 11-day drill, ending with drone jamming and hacking demonstrations, emphasized the rapid evolution and prominence of drones in warfare, particularly in Ukraine. Experts warn NATO must quickly enhance its drone warfare capabilities.

NATO has wrapped up a significant anti-drone exercise this week, marking Ukraine's first involvement as the Western alliance hastens to grasp the rapid development and extensive usage of unmanned systems in their ongoing war.

The drills, conducted over 11 days at a Dutch military base, included participation from over 20 countries and around 50 companies. These exercises tested advanced detection and drone counter systems and evaluated their interaction. The event concluded with demonstrations of drone jamming and hacking, coinciding with a display of drones' critical roles in Ukraine's ongoing conflict.

On Wednesday, a significant explosion in a Russian arsenal was caused by a large Ukrainian drone attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin subsequently announced a tenfold increase in drone production, targeting 1.4 million units this year. The increasing presence of drones in warfare—used both for targeting and reconnaissance—has driven NATO to bolster its defense against potential threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)