Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace and neighboring states have escalated since 2023, leading to NATO fighter jets shooting down Russian drones beginning in September 2025. Incidents include drones crashing in Romania, Moldova, Poland, and near the Black Sea, with some drones causing civilian injuries such as the May 29, 2026 drone strike injuring two civilians in Galati, Romania. NATO and EU nations are developing layered and cost-effective counter-drone defense systems, including interceptor drones, missile launchers, and electronic warfare tools. Political hesitancy to shoot down drones is fading as incursions increase, with new national laws authorized in Romania and Lithuania. Ongoing defense investments and joint exercises aim to counter these hybrid warfare threats.

Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace and neighboring states have escalated since 2023, leading to NATO fighter jets shooting down Russian drones beginning in September 2025. Incidents include drones crashing in Romania, Moldova, Poland, and near the Black Sea, with some drones causing civilian injuries such as the May 29, 2026 drone strike injuring two civilians in Galati, Romania. NATO and EU nations are developing layered and cost-effective counter-drone defense systems, including interceptor drones, missile launchers, and electronic warfare tools. Political hesitancy to shoot down drones is fading as incursions increase, with new national laws authorized in Romania and Lithuania. Ongoing defense investments and joint exercises aim to counter these hybrid warfare threats.