Germany Gives Military Power to Stop Drones

The German parliament has passed a new rule allowing the army to intervene when drones fly over the country. This move follows an uptick in drone sightings linked to Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.

Key Points

• Bipartisan Support
  The law was approved with backing from conservatives, social democrats, and the far‑right AfD.

• Objective
  Speed up and simplify drone defense for all stakeholders.

• Rising Threat
  German airspace has seen a sharp rise in drone activity since the war began, many of which are difficult to track and may be linked to Russia.

New Provisions

• Bundeswehr Activation
  The army can act directly when local police request assistance, including jamming signals or shooting down threatening drones.

• Independent Operations
  The defence ministry gains the authority to launch operations autonomously for quicker response.

• Police Empowerment
  Police remain the primary force against drones but now have enhanced tools and a new drone‑defense centre in Berlin.

• Stricter Penalties
  Flying drones into airport airspace can now result in up to two years of imprisonment, aimed at deterring climate‑activist disruptions.

Impact

• Faster Response
  The new law is expected to reduce reaction times and improve safety in German airspace.

• Enhanced Coordination
  Closer cooperation between the army, police, and defence ministry will streamline drone threat management.

• Deterrence
  Tougher penalties should discourage illegal drone activity, especially around critical infrastructure.