NATO is reinforcing air defenses across the Baltic states in preparation for a possible military confrontation with Russia, according to Canadian broadcaster CBC. The effort includes a new drone defense barrier being developed along Latvia’s eastern border.

The alliance considers its ability to confront Russia an existential issue for its member states. To demonstrate the effectiveness of regional air defense capabilities, NATO arranged a special press tour for a limited group of journalists.

Latvian Defense Ministry State Secretary Airis Rikveilis said his country has begun constructing a drone wall along its eastern frontier. The system incorporates radar equipment, interceptors and command-and-control technology designed to detect and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft.

Despite these efforts, NATO military planners acknowledge that creating an entirely impenetrable air defense shield is mathematically impossible.

Another major challenge is the cost of countering small airborne threats. Military experts point out that deploying heavy fighter jets to destroy compact, low-flying reconnaissance drones is financially inefficient, creating a significant imbalance between the cost of interception and the target being destroyed.

The development of Latvia’s drone defense infrastructure is part of NATO’s broader efforts to strengthen the protection of Baltic airspace amid preparations for a potential confrontation with Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, has previously stated that Moscow has no intention of attacking NATO countries.

Putin also said Russia does not regard the alliance’s expanding military capabilities as a threat because the country possesses everything necessary to ensure its own security.

The Russian president emphasized that the Russian Armed Forces are undergoing continuous development and modernization to maintain the country’s defense capabilities.