US intelligence warns of Russiane drone operations in Mediterranean
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US intelligence has warned European governments of a possible Russian drone operation targeting Spain, France or Italy, raising concerns about a potential new security threat in the Mediterranean. According to a report first published by Spanish newspaper El Mundo, Russia could use small Gerbera drones launched from commercial vessels operating in the Mediterranean. The drones can reportedly travel up to 600 kilometres and carry a limited explosive payload, meaning an attack could be intended to disrupt airports or critical infrastructure rather than cause mass casualties.
The warning is significant for southern Europe because it challenges the assumption that the Mediterranean is geographically removed from the security risks associated with Russia’s war against Ukraine. British military analyst Keir Giles told El Mundo that Moscow could target perceived vulnerabilities rather than countries closest to Russia, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has previously warned that southern European states cannot assume they are outside the potential reach of Russian attacks.
Spain, France and Italy are particularly relevant because of their strategic position in the Mediterranean, while the possibility of drones being launched from civilian shipping would create a different type of challenge for European surveillance and air-defence systems.
The reports have not been publicly confirmed by the CIA or the three governments, but the warning has added to concerns over the security of Europe’s southern flank.
