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Frontex took part in EU Space Days, held this year in Gdańsk, Poland. The event brought together more than 700 participants, including senior EU officials, policy experts, industry leaders, and innovators from across Europe. As the EU’s leading forum for space policy and innovation, the event focused on advancing the strategic use of space technologies to meet Europe’s security, economic, and environmental goals. 

Frontex highlighted how satellite-based technologies are being used to strengthen border management and enhance situational awareness. Satellite-based navigation and communication systems play a critical role in tracking and operating assets—on land, at sea, and in the air—including in remote and difficult-to-access areas, where staying connected is essential.  

The Agency currently provides 17 Copernicus-based products to EU Member States, supporting the monitoring of cross-border crime, irregular migration, and other key risks. These services enable national authorities to respond more effectively and in a timely manner. 

Frontex is also advancing the integration of data from multiple sensors, a process known as data fusion, to build a more robust surveillance architecture. This supports early detection of threats and improved coordination among operational partners. Participation in EU Space Days underscored the growing importance of innovation in strengthening border security and showcased Frontex’s role in delivering cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions. 

On 26 May, Frontex and the Bulgarian Border Police launched a new pilot project testing the use of long-endurance tactical drones for aerial surveillance of external borders. The initiative is part of Frontex’s broader strategy to operationalise next-generation European Border Surveillance capabilities. 

The drones are equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, offering real-time surveillance that significantly enhances situational awareness. The project aims to evaluate the drones’ operational performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness while reducing the logistical burden on ground teams. “This is not just about seeing more—it’s about seeing smarter,” said Hans Leijtens, Executive Director of Frontex. “By working together with Bulgaria and leading industry partners, we are taking concrete steps to future-proof European border security.” 

The pilot involves three contracted companies—Global SAT, Shield AI, and DAT CON—which will deliver aerial surveillance services under a company-owned, company-operated model. The drones will support the detection of irregular border crossings and cross-border crimes, helping national authorities act quickly and effectively. A live demonstration of the new technology will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 4 and 5 June 2025, bringing together representatives from EU Member States, EU agencies, and partner countries to observe the system in action and discuss its future potential. 

Since March, Frontex has facilitated the voluntary return of more than 1,000 Syrian nationals from 14 EU Member States, following the political transition in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. This development has led many displaced Syrians to seek a return to their home country after years of conflict. 

Frontex plays a critical role in supporting Member States by ensuring that all returnees are fully informed of their rights and the voluntary nature of their decision. Each return is carried out in line with EU legislation and international standards for the protection of fundamental rights. 

“Returning home is a deeply human aspiration,” said Executive Director Hans Leijtens. “For many, it means reuniting with loved ones and rebuilding lives. We are proud to support this process in full respect of dignity and choice.” These returns are part of the EU’s broader commitment to humane and voluntary repatriation. Frontex also assists in pre-return counselling, coordination, and soon, reintegration support through an expanded European Reintegration Programme (EURP), now including Syria.

Frontex participated in the Barracuda 2025 exercise in Sicily, a joint maritime training operation led by the Italian Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of Malta. The exercise covered critical areas including search and rescue, maritime monitoring, environmental protection, and accident response. 

Supported by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA), the training was a strong demonstration of cross-border cooperation and operational readiness. Frontex teams contributed operational knowledge and helped ensure seamless coordination across participating agencies. Exercises like Barracuda strengthen Europe’s collective ability to protect lives at sea and respond swiftly to maritime emergencies.

This month also saw other important milestones: 

• In Leixões, Portugal, the deployment of an Advanced Level Document Officer (ALDO) helped strengthen national capacity in detecting document fraud, thanks to close cooperation between Frontex and Portuguese authorities. 

• In Montenegro, a joint operation led to the seizure of 200 kilograms of illegal cut tobacco. With the support of vigilant Frontex officers and the swift action of Montenegrin authorities, this operation highlighted the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in combatting smuggling.