European Defence at the Frontier - Unmanned Systems and Strategic Readiness

AGENDA

On 12 November 2025, the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) and the European Enterprise Alliance (EEA) held a policy discussion titled European Defence at the Frontier: Unmanned Systems and Strategic Readiness at the European Parliament in Brussels. The event was hosted by MEP Michał Dworczyk, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Security and Defence, alongside MEP Kosma Złotowski and MEP Rasa Juknevičienė.

The debate focused on how the European Union can reinforce its defence preparedness in an environment shaped by rapid technological change and rising geopolitical pressures. Unmanned Aircraft Systems have become essential for surveillance, logistics, and electronic warfare, making them a strategic priority for Europe’s security and industrial competitiveness. Participants also reflected on the growing importance of anti-UAS technologies in protecting Europe’s airspace and critical infrastructure.

Discussions centred on strengthening Europe’s technological base, improving procurement and investment frameworks, and ensuring stable funding for defence innovation. Speakers highlighted the need for enhanced cooperation among EU institutions, industry, and research actors to ensure that upcoming policies fully support Europe’s readiness and operational needs.

Opening remarks were delivered by MEP Kosma Złotowski, MEP Rasa Juknevičienė, and MEP Michał Dworczyk. A keynote address was provided by MEP Reinis Poznaks, rapporteur for the forthcoming parliamentary report on drones and modern warfare systems, who outlined the main challenges and opportunities associated with next-generation defence technologies.

The panel featured contributions from Jonas Cederlöf (DG DEFIS), Stéphane Ouaki (EISMEA), Darek Saunders (Frontex), Dr Jamie Shea (Friends of Europe), Małgorzata Darowska (WB Group), and Jakub Bińkowski (ZPP). Their interventions covered operational gaps, emerging threats, industrial capacity, and the future role of public-private partnerships in Europe’s defence ecosystem.