Recent drone sightings over Denmark, as reported by Der Spiegel, are part of a worrisome trend, with similar activity observed in Kiel, Germany. These incidents have raised alarms regarding maritime security and potential destabilization in the region. The drone activity in Kiel occurred on September 26, soon after drones led to the temporary closure of Copenhagen’s airport. It appears these drones were monitoring critical areas, including waterfronts and facilities integral to submarine manufacturing by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. Notably, a larger “mother drone” seems to have coordinated several smaller units overseeing essential infrastructure along the coast and inland sites like the Heide refinery plant.
Regional Minister-President Daniel Gunther has stressed the necessity for enhanced drone defense systems in Germany to protect vital infrastructure and ensure public safety. He pointed out that these drone incursions across multiple EU nations seem strategically designed to instill fear and anxiety among the populace. Danish officials have speculated that some of the operations may be linked to Russian-affiliated merchant vessels operating in the Baltic Sea, including the tanker Pushpa, which was recently inspected by French authorities.
In response to these developments, EU leaders gathered in Copenhagen to discuss support for Ukraine amid growing Russian hybrid warfare tactics affecting both eastern borders and central Europe. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen addressed the implications of these incursions, stating, “We are witnessing an uptick in Russian aggression not only against Ukraine but also through unauthorized airspace violations and drone activities across several European nations. This is a clear test of our resolve.”
