Uncrewed Systems in the Arctic: Security, Surveillance, and NATO's Growing Role - Federico Borsari, CEPA

Uncrewed Systems in the Arctic: Security, Surveillance, and NATO's Growing Role - Federico Borsari, CEPA

Author: Randy Goers March 3, 2026 Duration: 39:06

Federico Borsari is a Non-Resident Fellow with the Transatlantic Defense and Security Program at the Center for European Policy Analysis, or CEPA for short.  The Center for European Policy Analysis is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy institution headquartered in Washington, DC, with hubs in London and Brussels. The organization focuses on strengthening the transatlantic alliance through research, analysis, and programs. CEPA provides insight on trends affecting democracy, security, and defense to government officials and agencies, helps transatlantic businesses navigate changing strategic landscapes, and builds networks of future leaders committed to transatlantic cooperation.

At CEPA, Federico focuses on issues at the intersection of technology and international security, with particular emphasis on unmanned systems and autonomy. His work also covers NATO and transatlantic defense and security. He has authored several analyses and publications on the use and security implications of unmanned aerial systems by both state and non-state actors, and recently co-authored the first-ever report on drone warfare and its implications for NATO.

Federico previously served as a Pan-European Fellow and later a Visiting Fellow with the European Council on Foreign Relations, and until October 2021 he worked as an analyst and project officer at the International Institute for International Political Studies in Milan, where he also helped organize the last three editions of the Mediterranean Dialogues Conference.

He holds a BA in History from the University of Modena and an MA in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the University of Bologna. He also earned a second MA in Middle Eastern Studies from the Catholic University in Milan, and conducted fieldwork in Iraqi Kurdistan for a research project on the institutionalization and depoliticization of the Peshmarga.

Federico is a frequent commentator on defense and drone technology in national and international media, and he regularly participates in conferences on defense technology and the use of drones.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Federico talks about how uncrewed systems are being used in the Arctic, and the challenges and opportunities they present for security, monitoring, and protecting critical infrastructure in this increasingly strategic region.


Hosted by Randy Goers, Drone Radio Show is a weekly conversation that moves beyond the basic buzz of propellers. It focuses on the human stories and practical applications shaping the world of unmanned flight. Each episode connects you directly with the pilots, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are actively deploying this technology in the field. You'll hear firsthand accounts of how drones are solving real problems, creating new market opportunities, and driving research forward in unexpected ways. This isn't just about the hardware; it's about the lessons learned while building a business from the ground up, the ethical considerations navigated during a project, and the personal insights gained from turning a fascination into a profession. For anyone curious about how aerial technology is applied across industries-from agriculture and construction to filmmaking and environmental conservation-this podcast offers a grounded perspective. Tune in for honest discussions that cut through the hype, providing actionable knowledge whether you're a seasoned operator, an aspiring professional, or simply intrigued by where this fast-moving technology is headed next.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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