EU Mulls Expanding Frontex Mandate to Counter Rising Drone Threats

European Union member states are considering granting Frontex, the bloc’s border and coast guard agency, new powers to help monitor European airspace and protect critical infrastructure amid growing concern over drone incursions and hybrid threats across the continent.

The Gaze reports this, referring to Euractiv.

The proposal would significantly broaden the agency’s current mandate, which so far has focused on border management and migration control, to include surveillance and counter-drone operations.

The planned revision of Frontex’s mandate, set for next year, follows a pledge by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to adapt the agency to the changing security environment. 

Ambassadors are expected to hold technical discussions on the issue on November 5 as part of the EU’s 2026 work programme.

The debate comes just months after Frontex adopted a NATO-style command structure aimed at improving coordination with member states. Currently, the agency assists with external border control, combats cross-border crime, and supports migration return procedures.

A draft Council note suggests potential amendments to Frontex’s regulation, allowing the agency to intervene during hybrid crises, such as unauthorized airspace violations, at the request of member states. 

The proposed changes could include updated rapid-reaction protocols and dedicated support for cases involving the “instrumentalization of migration” or drone attacks targeting strategic assets.

EU Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner recently indicated that Frontex’s responsibilities could gradually expand to include airport protection and drone defense, echoing calls from several member states for a more integrated security approach.

A separate EU presidency discussion paper also suggests empowering Frontex to deepen cooperation with non-EU partners. 

That could see the agency extend beyond existing agreements with six Western Balkan states and deploy personnel at major international airports and key border crossings, including for “pre-departure” screening of travelers entering the Schengen area.

While von der Leyen has promised to triple the agency’s standing corps to 30,000 personnel by 2027, several capitals remain cautious. Diplomats insist that Frontex’s “future mandate and tasks” must be clearly defined before any expansion proceeds.

As The Gaze reported earlier, Belgian authorities are investigating the appearance of several drones over the Kleine-Brogel air base, which is used by NATO and where, according to unconfirmed reports, American nuclear weapons are stored.