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Robot forces could guard NATO’s 2,150-mile east front in new border defense concept
Milrem Robotics has introduced a new plan that could change how NATO defends its eastern border. Before Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, the Estonian company shared its plan to establish robotic defense zones from Finland to Poland, using autonomous systems as the first line of defense.
The plan focuses on countering drones and improving border security. Instead of relying on large numbers of reserve troops, the firm suggests using unmanned systems to spot, track, and engage threats before they reach soldiers. The company says this could boost readiness on NATO’s eastern side, cut costs, and keep troops safer.
“The reality from Ukraine is clear: mass and readiness still matter, but how you generate them must change,” Milrem CEO Kuldar Väärsi said.
“Robotizing the Eastern Flank allows NATO to create a persistent defensive layer where unmanned systems make first contact, absorb losses, and buy time for decision-making — without immediately putting soldiers at risk.”
Robotic shield along NATO’s border
The concept is to set up Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS) zones along NATO’s eastern border, which is approximately 2,150 miles (3,500 kilometers). These zones would act as permanent defenses, ready to react quickly to any threats.
Milrem’s vision does not rely on one large group of robots. Instead, many unmanned systems would be spread out in secure spots and could be activated quickly when needed. The company believes this would help them survive longer and maintain strong defenses at all times.
According to the firm, these robotic zones would give NATO more time to react and plan before threats reach the front lines. The company also believes this setup could mean fewer reserve troops need to be called up during border incidents.
Networked sensors and autonomous vehicles
The plan brings together different unmanned systems. Ground robots, aerial drones, and current intelligence and surveillance tools would all work together through a shared communications network.
The ARCOS command-and-control platform is at the heart of the system. This software coordinates the autonomous units and links them to the larger battlefield management systems used by NATO.
Milrem’s plan also features some of its current robotic vehicles, like the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle and the HAVOC robotic combat vehicle. These would handle tougher combat jobs, letting autonomous systems deal with threats in dangerous situations before soldiers are sent in.
Autonomous systems meet the enemy first
In the firm’s proposed battlefield model, robotic units would be the first to face an attacking enemy. They would provide direct-fire support and counter-drone operations, forming the first line of defense.
The company said this first layer would slow down attackers and give commanders more time to assess the situation. Traditional long-range weapons would still be used for deep strikes, while autonomous units handle risky frontline battles.
This setup aims to keep troops safer at the start of a conflict and help maintain their fighting strength for later operations.
Lessons from modern warfare
The plan is based on lessons from the war in Ukraine, where drones and autonomous tech have become key parts of fighting. Military planners in Europe are now looking more at how unmanned systems can support regular troops and boost readiness.
Milrem argues that robotic platforms can take losses that would otherwise affect soldiers. The company also thinks autonomous systems could help NATO stay better defended without needing a lot more troops.
The full concept is expected to be presented during Eurosatory 2026, where defense officials and industry leaders will review new technologies designed to make Europe safer in a more complex threat environment.
