IISS Report Links Russian Shadow Fleet to Drone Disruptions Over Europe
A report published by the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) on July 2, 2026, identified 144 suspected drone sightings over European airspace between 2024 and mid-2026. The report alleges that Russia utilized shadow fleet vessels to launch drones, causing repeated disruptions to civilian aviation. Analysts suggest the campaign is a deliberate "gray zone" tactic designed to undermine European security architecture while remaining below the threshold of triggering a collective NATO response.
Date: July 2, 2026
Location: Sweden
Conflict: NATO-Russia Gray Zone Conflict
Category: other
Severity: MEDIUM
Source: Just Security