NATO allies are discussing granting the Supreme Allied Commander Europe greater autonomy in authorizing the downing of drones. This potential shift in policy comes ahead of a leaders’ summit scheduled for next month in Ankara. Currently, national procedures often dictate when and how drones can be intercepted, potentially hindering rapid responses. The proposed change aims to streamline decision-making and improve NATO’s ability to react to aerial threats. According to diplomats and an alliance official, the discussions are ongoing and a decision could be reached by the Ankara summit. The move reflects growing concern over the increasing use of drones, particularly by Russia, in proximity to NATO airspace. This increased authority would allow for quicker responses without needing individual member state approval in certain scenarios.