Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001317/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Salvatore De Meo (PPE), Caterina Chinnici (PPE), Marco Falcone (PPE), Fulvio Martusciello (PPE), Letizia Moratti (PPE), Giusi Princi (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Flavio Tosi (PPE)
According to press reports, a Russian-made drone is said to have flown over the site of the Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra (Varese) five times in the last month. One of the EU’s main scientific hubs, the facility conducts strategic research, including in the field of drone-related security. The site is also just a short distance away from sensitive facilities, such as that of defence contractor Leonardo.
The Milan public prosecutor’s office will reportedly open a formal investigation into the matter, highlighting the sensitivity of the case from a security perspective. If reports are found to be true, the episode would be particularly significant as it could mean that – at a time when the geopolitical context calls for maximum vigilance – technological, scientific and national security are at risk.
In light of the above:
- 1.Is the Commission aware of the flyovers of the JRC site in Ispra and of any investigations being conducted by the relevant authorities?
- 2.What measures are currently in place to protect and ensure the physical and cybersecurity of the EU’s strategic research centres?
- 3.Will it open a specific inquiry into the Ispra affair to check for any weaknesses and step up the existing security measures?
Submitted: 31.3.2025