Copenhagen fortified against drone threat ahead of EU summits
Photo: Copenhagen to be protected from Russian drones (Getty Images)
Troops from France, Germany, and Sweden are arriving in Denmark to defend against potential drone attacks. This decision is linked to recent drone attacks on the country’s airports, according to Reuters.
On Wednesday, Copenhagen will host EU leaders, and on Thursday, a meeting of the broader European Political Community, which includes 47 countries, will take place there. The country’s authorities have already increased security in response to the threat of attacks.
Drones paralyzed airports
Last week, drones disrupted the operation of six airports in Denmark, including Copenhagen, the largest in Northern Europe. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called it a hybrid attack against her country.
Although Copenhagen has not officially named a specific culprit, Frederiksen said that Russia is the main source of threat to Europe. The Kremlin denies involvement.
Support from allies
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the country will deploy Counter-UAS systems and has already delivered several radar installations to Denmark. The Swedish police will also deploy forces to Copenhagen, and Norwegian law enforcement officers will participate in ensuring security.
France will provide a Fennec military helicopter and a group of 35 specialists to operate counter-drone systems. Germany will send about 40 soldiers to detect and neutralize drones.
NATO strengthens presence
The operation in Copenhagen will last until October 7, the German government reported. The soldiers will arrive with the necessary equipment to counter the threat.
On Sunday, Denmark banned civilian drone flights after drones were spotted near military facilities. NATO, in response to the situation, reinforced its mission in the Baltic Sea, and a German frigate arrived in Copenhagen to control the airspace.
It should be recalled that on October 1, an informal summit of EU leaders will take place in Copenhagen, at which a new defense strategy will be discussed. It is expected that at the EU Military Capabilities Summit, the creation of a "drone wall" to detect, track, and destroy drones, as well as projects for rapid response to aircraft incursions into European airspace, will be discussed.
According to The Times, NATO is preparing to strengthen the rules of engagement against Russia. This refers to a transition from a patrol mission to a full-fledged air defense system.
