Germany plans anti-drone shield over Leipzig attack — report

Germany is set to deploy an extensive protective shield to safeguard against attacks like the failed drone assault on Leipzig airport, according to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt. On August 4, multiple small drones targeted Leipzig-Halle Airport in eastern Germany, with one hitting a stationary plane and another possibly striking an inbound cargo jet.

Russian intelligence attributed the incident to Moscow, which has vehemently denied any involvement. Dobrindt stated that Russia's "hybrid attacks are now a daily reality," asserting that Germany will defend itself against increasing drone threats. The government plans to expand federal police's mobile drone-defense units, including vehicles and helicopters, to rapidly deploy and protect key cities' airspace, such as Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.

The shield will not only intercept drones but also defuse explosives. A legislative change will empower critical infrastructure operators to detect and counter drone sabotage, including water, power, and defense companies. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed Germany's accusations, alleging that they mark the beginning of a real war.

He criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for attempting to bolster Germany's military capabilities in response to hybrid threats, likening Merz's actions to war declarations against Russia. Lavrov also condemned Germany's closure of the Russian House cultural center in Berlin and the Russian consulate in Bonn. The government intends to establish a national protective cyber shield to identify and intercept hacking attacks, which have surged daily, with many attributed to Russia, other nations, or criminal organizations.

Additionally, the government aims to enhance the use of AI, biometric facial recognition, and video surveillance, particularly at transport hubs, to identify potential attackers before they strike. The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) reported over a thousand suspicious drone flights over Germany last year, primarily targeting military installations, airports, ports, and defense firms.