Germany expects an “arms race” in drone defence as threats evolve. The Federal Police is expanding its drone unit from 70 to 300 officers, after an explosive-laden drone was found at Leipzig airport earlier this month.
Germany has opened a new centre to develop and test technology for detecting and stopping hostile drones. The move follows a series of incidents as Berlin expands the Federal Police’s drone defence force to 300 officers nationwide.
Germany has opened a new Joint Drone Defence Centre in Berlin, which becomes operational in January, brings together agencies to counter drone threats, with increasing sightings near airports, military sites and energy facilities.
Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt warned of legal challenges to a bill expanding the Bundeswehr’s role in domestic drone defence after a surge in suspected Russian drone sightings. The plan would strengthen police capabilities and create a joint defence centre, but faces constitutional concerns over military involvement in internal security.
