Germany fears mysterious drones conducting espionage over critical infrastructure
Concerns are mounting in Germany over unidentified drones that are suspected of deliberately flying over key infrastructure sites to gather intelligence.
Reports indicate that last week, several unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flew over vital facilities including a power plant, the university hospital in Kiel, and the government headquarters of the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein.
Sources reveal that initially, two small drones hovered above the naval division’s factory premises operated by Thyssenkrupp, before sightings extended to the university hospital in Kiel.
These flights appeared intentional, as later in the evening, a group of drones was spotted along the Kiel Fjord and near the coastal power station around 10 pm.
One observation even recorded a large stationary drone over the fjord, accompanied by several smaller flying objects.
Authorities conducted surveillance over the regional parliament building and the Heide oil refinery, noting that all objects followed parallel flight paths, making analysis more complicated.
Currently, in Germany, drone engagement is only legally permitted around military barracks and their vicinities, but Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has announced plans to swiftly introduce legislation allowing the military to shoot down unauthorized aerial targets.
A major challenge remains the timely detection of these drones, as they often do not show up on standard radar systems and are usually spotted visually.
This situation echoes the recent incident in late September, when unknown persons attempted to attack a military transport aircraft using pyrotechnics, highlighting the growing need for enhanced airspace security measures.