Germany Expands Military Powers Amid Rising Drone Threats

Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has announced plans to significantly expand the powers of the Bundeswehr in the fight against illegal drone overflights, citing a heightened threat level. To bolster security, Dobrindt proposed the establishment of a drone defense center and revisions to the Aviation Security Act, which would allow the military to assist police in countering drone incursions, including the potential use of force to shoot down rogue drones. This initiative follows alarming incidents in Denmark, where drones paralyzed airports for hours, including a significant closure at Copenhagen Airport and sightings at various military bases. These events have heightened concerns about potential hybrid attacks using drones, prompting questions about whether Denmark will activate Article 4 of the NATO Treaty in response. In light of these tensions, the European Union is ramping up efforts to create a comprehensive drone defense system, particularly along its Eastern flank. EU Defense Industry Commissioner Andrius Kubilius indicated that a recent video conference among EU defense ministers sought to kickstart this initiative, aiming to build a defense 'drone wall' capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles within a year. Participating countries included Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania, signalling a united front against aerial threats. Currently, Germany's Aviation Security Act limits the Bundeswehr to less aggressive measures, such as forcing aircraft to land or issuing threats of force, which many legal scholars believe are insufficient given the evolving threat landscape. Experts like Verena Jackson from the Bundeswehr University have noted that while downing drones is technically possible, it raises concerns over safety and collateral damage, making it a rarely considered option. As the demand for more robust drone defense grows, the landscape of aerial security is set to transform, with both Germany and the EU taking proactive steps to counter increasing drone-related incidents. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2