A new IISS report concludes Russia used shadow fleet ships to launch drones over Europe, testing air defenses and monitoring NATO targets.

Incidents cited include drones near Koege, Denmark in January 2025, Copenhagen Airport closures in September 2025, and sightings over military bases in the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, and France’s Ile Longue, with defenses strengthened in several cases.

Shadow fleet vessels—ships with unclear ownership used to dodge sanctions—were identified near drone incursions, including a Vezhen near Ireland during Zelenskyy’s visit and vessels like Arctica and Boracay linked to Danish events.

Observers flag weaknesses in European air defenses, which remain tailored to traditional threats rather than drone-based reconnaissance.

No Western government has officially confirmed the allegations in the report.

NATO and European governments are criticized for fragmented policy responses, with NATO arguing against shooting down all drones, creating strategic gaps.

The report’s findings were released ahead of publication, signaling preliminary insights rather than a final peer-reviewed release.

Recommendations call for a clearer legal framework to act against drones of uncertain origin and a unified European response to drone threats over allied airspace.

Analyst believes these missions aim to deter the West, expose NATO vulnerabilities, and deliver strategic messaging for Moscow.

Context highlights ongoing concerns about European air safety, NATO readiness, and Russia’s reconnaissance and posture relative to civilian aviation.