Kristina Roberts
A group of more than 40 companies, universities, and research teams, led by Nokia, has started a new project to protect Europe’s most important infrastructure using drones and robots. The goal is to keep energy grids, communication lines, and data centers safe from threats. The project is partly funded by the European Union and includes big names in technology and defense.
The idea for this project came after the war in Ukraine showed how vulnerable Europe’s infrastructure is to attacks, especially from drones. Thomas Eder, the leader of the project at Nokia, said that protecting critical systems was not always a top priority in the past. He mentioned that just a few years ago, the EU did not approve funding for a similar plan. Now, with growing security concerns, the project has finally gotten the support it needs.
The drones and robots used in this project will be equipped with advanced sensors, like lasers and radars, to monitor infrastructure such as power plants, railways, and ports. Some of the technology will also work underwater, ensuring full protection. While the main focus is on civilian security, there is a possibility that the same technology could later be used for defense purposes. “I think it is highly possible,” Eder said when asked if the project could be adapted for military use. However, for now, the priority is keeping essential services running smoothly.
The project is expected to last three years and could bring in around 90 million euros in revenue by 2035. Nokia did not share the exact amount of funding but confirmed that the EU, participating countries, and private companies are all contributing. Other major companies involved include Nvidia and several European defense firms. Nokia’s new CEO has also shown interest in expanding the company’s work in defense, along with artificial intelligence and data centers.
This initiative is part of a larger effort by the EU to strengthen its security and technology sectors. By using drones and robots, Europe hopes to prevent disruptions to its critical systems before they happen. The war in Ukraine has proven how damaging drone attacks can be, making this project even more urgent. With the right technology in place, Europe aims to stay one step ahead of potential threats.
The project is just one example of how countries and companies are working together to improve security in an increasingly uncertain world. As technology advances, so do the risks, making it essential to invest in systems that can protect vital infrastructure. Whether for civilian or military use, this drone project could play a key role in keeping Europe safe in the years to come.
Thomas Eder from Nokia emphasized that the immediate focus is on protecting power lines, railways, and other critical structures. But he also acknowledged that the same tools could be useful for defense if needed. For now, the goal is clear: make sure Europe’s infrastructure stays secure, no matter what challenges arise. With drones watching over power plants and robots inspecting underwater cables, this project could be a game-changer in how safety and security are managed across the continent.
The European Union has realized that waiting for a crisis to happen is not an option. By investing in advanced drone technology now, they hope to prevent disasters before they even begin. This project is a big step toward a safer and more resilient Europe, where critical systems remain protected around the clock. Whether it’s a power outage, a communication breakdown, or a security threat, these drones and robots will be ready to respond, ensuring that essential services keep running without interruption.
In the end, this is about more than just technology—it’s about keeping people safe and making sure that Europe’s infrastructure can withstand whatever comes its way. With companies like Nokia leading the charge, the future of security looks smarter, faster, and more reliable than ever before. The next few years will be crucial in turning this vision into reality, and the world will be watching to see how this ambitious project unfolds.
