Can Germany defend itself against drone attacks?

On August 25, German media reported three drones allegedly found near Leipzig/Halle Airport, with a substance possibly containing 50 grams of Hexogen, a military-grade explosive. Public broadcasters NDR, WDR, and Süddeutsche Zeitung speculate on a more extensive plot than previously disclosed. Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted Germany is increasingly targeted by hybrid attackers and highlighted measures to enhance public protection, including the inauguration of a drone security research center in Saxony-Anhalt.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt suspected foreign powers, possibly Russia, based on a drone's proximity to a Ukrainian cargo plane. Germany has seen an increase in drone sightings at airports, ports, industrial sites, and military properties; the BKA recorded over 1,000 suspicious drone flights in 2025. A drone disrupted air traffic in Munich last October, stranding passengers.

Expert Nico Lange warned Germany lacks the necessary sensor networks and beams to detect low-flying drones. The European Association for Unmanned Aviation pointed out Germany's weak drone defense points, suggesting real-time monitoring and mandatory tracking via ADS-L. Dobrindt launched the Joint Counter Drone Center in December to collect and analyze information from various security agencies.

However, the incident at Leipzig airport highlights the challenges of detecting and intercepting dangerous drones within minutes. Drones move swiftly, making quick decisions crucial. Germany's divided responsibilities complicate drone defense; state police initially handle suspicious drones near large airports or railway facilities, while federal police intervene only after the drone enters an airport's airspace.

Security experts and opposition politicians call for clearer regulations and consolidated responsibilities, suggesting the federal police should lead drone defense. The federal police established a special unit in December, with plans to expand it to 300 personnel across eight locations. Some politicians even suggest deploying the Bundeswehr, but current German law reserves police responsibility for domestic security.

Germany amended its air security law in March to allow the Bundeswehr to shoot down drones outside its premises to prevent a "particularly serious disaster." The German Police Union noted that while airports have announced drone defense systems, they have yet to intercept any drones.