EU plans defensive wall against drones
Following several violations of EU airspace, a new defence project is designed to protect Europe from unmanned aircraft.
(d.de) – Following a number of incidents involving drones in Denmark, Romania and Poland, the European Union has resolved to create a “drone wall” to protect its eastern flank. The decision was taken in a meeting of EU defence ministers held via video link. The plans include a defence system that can identify, track and intercept drones, supposed by satellite-based position detection and maritime security measures.
The German Minister of the Interior Alexander Dobrindt announced steps to update powers related to drone defence. In future, German armed forces will be allowed to shoot down unmanned flying objects under certain conditions and in situations of acute danger. Until now, the Federal Police and federal state police forces have been responsible for this, but lack suitable technology.
Intervention by the armed forces would only be permissible if human life or critical infrastructure were at immediate risk, and other defence measures were not sufficient for the task, Dobrindt said. The measures available include technology such as jammers and systems designed to take over control of drones.