Frontex and the Bulgarian Border Police have concluded a three-month pilot project testing drones for EU border surveillance, covering 8 100 km² with long- and short-endurance systems. Operated by specialised providers, the drones delivered mobile, real-time aerial surveillance independent of fixed infrastructure, integrating multiple data sources into one operational picture. The project produced guidelines for using drones in daily missions, showing how innovation can boost situational awareness, support officers and strengthen Europe’s ability to manage its borders.
