France Warns of New Hybrid Threat After Leipzig Drone Attack

France’s top domestic intelligence official, Celine Berthon, has warned that the attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany could indicate a shift toward more violent hybrid attacks against critical infrastructure and strategic industries in Europe. Berthon, director of France’s DGSI intelligence agency, stated that France is currently assessing the risk of similar attacks on French soil.

The explosives-laden drone discovered near a Ukrainian aircraft at Leipzig/Halle on August 4th highlights the potential threat to French defense and technology industries, though other strategic sectors like energy and communications could also be targeted. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, France has observed a surge in hybrid threats, encompassing cyber intrusions and acts of violence through local proxies.

Berthon did not attribute blame for the Leipzig incident, but German Chancellor Friedrich Merz promised to reveal the responsible party soon. Moscow has denied involvement. Berthon cautioned that hybrid operations often aim at economic, scientific, and government institutions, potentially disrupting elections before the 2027 French presidential vote.

French Armed Forces chief Gen. Fabien Mandon admitted that the nation is behind its adversaries in producing affordable drones and defensive systems capable of countering mass drone attacks. Mandon highlighted that "dronization" is a reality, with thousands of Ukrainian drones crossing into Russia nightly. He noted that France’s defense model excels against traditional threats but lags behind adversaries who have developed cheap, mass-produced weapons.

Mandon stressed that France is not yet equipped to handle this new challenge. Security concerns have risen among French leaders as President Emmanuel Macron encourages industry to adapt to a "war economy."