Escalating Military Threat from Russia: New Drone Attack Capabilities in Europe and Their Potential Scope
In recent weeks, the security situation across Europe has significantly deteriorated due to increased activity of Russian drones known as ‘Shaheds’ and ‘Gerans.’ Defense experts warn that the current military hardware possessed by Russia enables attacks not just on individual countries but across entire regions.
According to Defence Express, these drones can reach distant nations, using launch sites in Belarus or temporarily set up areas in Crimea, Bryansk region, and Kaliningrad oblast.Future conflict scenarios suggest that these drones could be used for targeted strikes across Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and even the United Kingdom.
Depending on their range—up to 1800 and 2500 kilometers—Russia could target almost all of Europe, including half of Spain and almost all capitals, except Lisbon.
This poses new challenges for European air defense systems, which, according to experts, have significant gaps in protecting against modern drone threats.The recent successful interception of provocations by Polish air defenses demonstrates Russia’s ongoing expansion of capabilities, and the initial breach areas may become launching points for further incursions into Europe.
It is also crucial to consider that Russia can establish new launch sites using existing facilities or quickly set up new ones in areas such as Belarus, Crimea, and Kaliningrad.Overall, this situation requires careful analysis and increased defense readiness by European countries and NATO, as the potential scope and range of attacks could dramatically alter regional power balances.
The U.S.
UN representative emphasized that any escalation by Russia, including airspace violations, presents a serious threat and must be urgently halted to prevent further destabilization.