Germany considers major surge in drone production to strengthen NATO's eastern defences

Germany is contemplating a significant boost in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production to contribute to the security of NATO's eastern flank, experts have indicated.

German drone manufacturers may play a crucial role in bolstering NATO’s defence capabilities, particularly in regions like the Baltic, which require efficient surveillance systems, Caliber.Az reports via German media.

Military analysts suggest that drones are particularly well-suited for monitoring large and remote territories such as the Baltic. However, experts, including Michael Santo, a noted military analyst, caution that while drones offer vital surveillance capabilities, ensuring the region’s security would still necessitate the deployment of substantial ground forces.

To meet the demands of this expanded role, Germany would need to ramp up its drone production significantly. Reports suggest that the country could be required to increase production levels to between 30,000 and 50,000 UAVs per month to adequately support NATO's defence needs along its eastern borders.

While drones offer numerous advantages, including real-time reconnaissance and reduced operational costs, experts stress the importance of maintaining a balanced and integrated defence system, combining air, ground, and intelligence capabilities to safeguard the region effectively.

Helsing, a Munich-based defence technology company, is urging the swift development of an effective conventional deterrent on NATO's eastern flank, focusing on the integration of cutting-edge combat drones. Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing, earlier emphasized the urgency of deploying a "drone wall" within the next year, alongside the necessary reconnaissance systems, satellites, and additional surveillance drones.

Scherf expressed his concerns about the outdated approach to modern defence strategies, drawing a parallel to Cold War-era tactics. He critiqued the current defence mentality, which is centered on a costly arms race to achieve parity in tanks, aircraft, and naval systems. Scherf believes this approach is flawed, urging a fundamental shift in how military deterrence is conceptualized.

Helsing, renowned for its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) in defence technologies, has developed the HX-2 drone, which was initially designed for deployment in Ukraine. The HX-2 employs AI to direct explosive charges to their targets and is specifically designed to be resilient against electronic interference.

This potential shift in Germany’s defence strategy highlights the growing role of drones in modern military operations and reflects the country’s commitment to supporting NATO’s security efforts, particularly as tensions rise in Eastern Europe.

By Vafa Guliyeva