The European Commission allocated an additional €130 million through the Border Management and Visa Instrument for drone and counter-drone capabilities at external borders.

The new allocation follows an initial €250 million announced in December 2025. It covers authorities in 16 European Union member states and Norway, a Schengen-associated country.

Planned uses include aerial surveillance, detection of unauthorized drones, information-technology development, training and closer coordination among border authorities. The work applies to land and maritime borders as well as ports, airports and crossing points.

Projects are to be incorporated into participating countries’ existing border-management programs, with funding available through December 31, 2029. The allocation establishes financial support; procurement, deployment and measured security outcomes will occur through later national projects.