The Monocle Daily Europe’s ‘drone wall’, Hegseth summons top military brass and why does everyone want a digital ID?
Sep 30, 2025
Gorana Gerjic, a Monocle security correspondent, sheds light on Europe’s ‘drone wall’ initiative aimed at bolstering defense against Russian aggressions, highlighting alternative technologies like jamming. Emily Isawaho, a peace mediation expert, discusses the implications of digital IDs and contrasts Switzerland’s privacy-focused approach with the UK's risk of mandatory systems. Oliver Dixon adds a twist with insights on Emirates' luxury wine selection aboard, emphasizing the importance of wine training for cabin crew and the unique challenges of serving wine in-flight.
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Hybrid Attacks Need Layered Defences
- Europe faces repeated small-scale hybrid attacks that require layered, pragmatic defences rather than a single 'wall'.
- Sensors, jamming and Ukraine-tested low-cost measures are being prioritised as part of a multi-year response.
Prioritise Jamming And Sensors Over Shooting
- Do prioritise non-destructive defences like sensors and signal jamming before shooting down drones near civilian sites.
- Avoid defaulting to kinetic responses because of collateral damage and legal risk.
EU Grows Serious But NATO Still Central
- The EU is increasing defence spending and coordination but will not become a conventional defence union.
- NATO remains the principal defence alliance while the EU focuses on procurement and capability development.
