Germany accuses Russia of a drone bomb attempt at Leipzig. Now its eight biggest airports get drone detection

Germany is bolstering its airport security by deploying a new drone detection system at eight of its largest airports, as reported by the German Federal Ministry for Transport on October 5. This system, operated by Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS), aims to protect critical infrastructure and passenger safety in the face of evolving security threats.

Accusations of a hybrid attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, where a Russian drone carrying explosives nearly collided with a Ukrainian An-124 aircraft, prompted this expanded security measure. Finland's President Alexander Stubb warned Europe must brace for continued hybrid and sabotage attacks by Russia, which seeks to instill panic through such actions.

As of October 5, seven of Germany's eight biggest airports are equipped with the new drone detection system. Key stakeholders, including Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger and Baden-Württemberg Transport Minister Nicole Razavi, were briefed on the system at Stuttgart Airport, where it is being implemented. Bilger emphasized that the system creates an essential technical foundation for early threat detection and rapid communication of potential dangers to authorities.

He highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the dangers posed by unmanned aircraft, stating that protective measures are being taken proactively based on the changing security landscape.

The DFS system enables the early detection of drones near airports and facilitates swift transmission of threat information to relevant authorities. This expedites risk assessment and response, according to the ministry. DFS is tasked with detecting drones during approach and departure phases, while the Federal Police and other security services are responsible for preventing threats and countering any potential attacks.

Coordination among the Federal Ministry of the Interior, DFS, Federal Police, and airports ensures rapid information exchange and a unified understanding of the situation.

The system will be fully operational at all eight major German airports, including Leipzig/Halle Airport, where a drone bomb attack was previously attempted. No further details about the system's operational specifics have been disclosed. Germany has accused Russia of the Leipzig attack and has imposed additional sanctions against Russian individuals and entities.

The German government anticipates that Russia will continue to target Germany with similar hybrid threats. While Germany is not at war with Russia, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul noted that Germany is nonetheless a "target of war."