EU Commission wants anti-drone defenses at Brussels HQ

The European Commission is considering implementing anti-drone defenses at its main office in Brussels due to concerns over security threats from unauthorized unmanned aircraft.

Discussions are underway with potential suppliers to equip the Berlaymont building with systems to counter espionage and attacks from drones. Details of the discussions, which involve the EU executive and Belgian authorities, remain confidential due to the sensitive nature of security matters.

Brussels, notorious for espionage, has experienced foreign operatives posing as officials and journalists. The introduction of drones could escalate these activities.

A Commission spokesperson confirmed the evaluation of countermeasures against the security risks posed by drones near sensitive buildings but declined to elaborate.

Specific anti-drone solutions under review are not disclosed, but they typically include detection cameras and electronic jamming devices.

EU officials, dealing with confidential information inside the Berlaymont, have resorted to closing curtains to prevent drones from capturing visuals of documents or meetings.

The building also serves as the residence of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and is part of the broader security considerations for the Commission's staff.

The Commission has previously advised against hostile drones and implemented airspace regulations to manage drone activity.

Other EU bodies, such as the Council of the EU and the European Parliament, located near the Commission, did not disclose if they are adopting similar security measures, though they assured that risks are met with suitable responses.

In Brussels, drone flights are mostly prohibited without explicit permission, reinforcing the security framework around the capital.