Denmark has instated a prohibition on civilian drone flights following recent drone activities around military sites, which led to temporary closures of several Danish airports. The Danish military responded to the drone sightings with various measures but did not disclose specifics. Incidents earlier in the week caused flight disruptions, including a nearly four-hour shutdown of Copenhagen Airport.
The Danish government has labeled the drone incidents as part of a “hybrid attack” but has not definitively attributed responsibility. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen suggested potential involvement from Moscow, citing Russia as a primary threat to European security, although the Kremlin denies any involvement. These events add to ongoing security concerns in northern Europe amid growing suspicions of Russian aggression.
In response to the situation, Denmark has imposed a ban on civilian drones in its airspace for the upcoming week, coinciding with the European Union summit hosted by the country. Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized the need to provide optimal working conditions for security forces during the summit.
As part of the security preparations, a German air defence frigate has arrived in Copenhagen to support airspace surveillance during the significant events. Following a NATO meeting in Latvia, Colonel Martin O’Donnell announced increased vigilance in the Baltic Sea region, including Denmark, through the Baltic Sentry initiative. NATO leaders remain in close communication with Danish authorities regarding the drone incidents.
