European military technology and drone defense exercises

European nations are conducting large-scale military exercises focused on testing next-generation defense technologies and addressing modern battlefield lessons.

In Spain, the Armed Forces are conducting the ‘Atlas 26’ exercise at the Médano del Loro training ground in Huelva from October 19 to 23. This maneuver involves a unified command from the Army, Navy, Air and Space Force, Civil Guard, and National Police to develop responses to multi-layered aerial threats, specifically Class I and II drones. Participants are testing tactics to detect, coordinate, and neutralize unmanned aerial systems through physical destruction and electronic warfare. The exercise utilizes 5G technology for command and control and integrates research from national companies and universities to enhance anti-drone capabilities, with scenarios ranging from national territory protection to NATO air defense integration.

Simultaneously, Portugal hosted ARTEX26, a three-week exercise held at the Santa Margarida military camp from September 28 to October 14. Involving the Portuguese Army, the European Defence Agency, and representatives from 22 European states, the program prioritized electronic warfare, drones, long-range precision weapons, and air and missile defense. Industry leaders, such as Himera and Rannon, participated in testing encrypted communications and specialized anti-drone munitions. Specific technological validations included the Spanish company EINSA’s ALANO unmanned ground vehicle for logistics and medical evacuation, as well as the ARDITI agency’s testing of ALFA Interior, ALFA Exterior, and Bravo drone systems for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.