Denmark Investigates Drone Sightings Over Military Installations Amid Security Concerns
Denmark is investigating multiple drone sightings over its military installations, including its largest airbase, Karup, prompting heightened security concerns and fears of potential hybrid attacks. The incidents follow a series of airspace violations and airport closures earlier in the week, raising questions about the source and intent of the drone activity.
Drone Sightings and Airport Disruptions
Overnight, the Danish Defence Ministry confirmed drone activity at several of its locations. Police specifically reported "one to two drones" near and over the Karup air base on Friday evening, causing a brief closure of civil airspace. This follows earlier disruptions at Copenhagen Airport and other regional airports like Aalborg Airport and Billund Airport, which were temporarily shut down due to drone sightings.
International Concerns and Potential Russian Involvement
The drone incursions have triggered international concern, particularly given recent airspace violations by Russian aircraft and drones in other NATO member states, including Poland, Estonia, and Romania. While Danish authorities have cautioned against directly linking the drone activity to Russia, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has described the incidents as "hybrid attacks" and acknowledged Russia as the "main country that poses a threat to Europe's security." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has dismissed the allegations as "unfounded".
Responses and Security Measures
In response to the increasing drone threat, Denmark is taking several measures to bolster its defenses. The country has accepted an offer from Sweden to provide anti-drone technology for the upcoming European Union summit in Copenhagen. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard has announced plans to propose legislation allowing infrastructure owners to shoot down drones. Furthermore, Germany is considering revising air safety laws to allow the military to engage and potentially shoot down drones under certain circumstances.
NATO's Response and Enhanced Vigilance
NATO has vowed to upgrade its mission in the Baltic Sea and is enhancing its "Baltic Sentry" mission by deploying additional intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms, as well as an air-defense frigate. Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, the chair of NATO’s Military Committee, affirmed NATO’s commitment to “react quickly and decisively against this kind of reckless behavior." The alliance is also strengthening the defense of Europe’s eastern flank through the "Eastern Sentry" mission.
| Incident | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Drone Sightings | Karup Air Base, Skrydstrup Air Base, Jutland Dragoon Regiment | Drones observed near and over military installations. Airspace closures reported. |
| Airport Closures | Copenhagen Airport, Aalborg Airport, Billund Airport | Airports temporarily shut down due to drone activity. |
| International Violations | Poland, Estonia, Romania | Russian drones and fighter jets breached airspace in NATO member states. |
The investigation into the drone sightings is ongoing, and Danish authorities are working to determine the source and purpose of the incursions. The incidents have highlighted the growing vulnerability of critical infrastructure to drone-based threats and prompted a renewed focus on enhancing security measures and international cooperation.
