Enhanced agreement between Union and SPD for less restrictive drone disarmament - Drones Could Potentially See Easier Deployment Pushed for by Latest Union and SPD Efforts
Germany Moves to Simplify Drone Interception
In a bid to address growing concerns over drone incursions near sensitive military installations, German lawmakers have taken a significant step forward. The Aviation Security Act was amended in January 2025, granting the Luftwaffe the authority to shoot down unidentified drones operating within German airspace.
This proactive approach aims to counter potential espionage or sabotage efforts via drones, a shared concern among European allies. However, there is no specific information regarding new proposals from Roderich Kiesewetter of the SPD (Social Democratic Party of Germany).
Nevertheless, Kiesewetter has expressed concerns about the efficiency of the current measures, stating that none of the previous drone overflights would have been prevented. He suggests a general adjustment of the Bundeswehr's powers or a state of tension, as outlined in the German Basic Law, to enable an effective defense against drones, preventing spy flights, and ultimately, a shootdown if necessary.
German Defense Council member Dirk Wiese also supports the progress made in detecting drones and defending against them in collaboration with the federal government and the states. However, more effective regulation is needed to achieve this goal.
The red-green minority government had initially proposed a draft for amending the Air Security Act in January, aiming to provide a legal basis for drone shootdowns in dangerous situations. However, due to the new elections and the change of government, this amendment was not passed. Previously, it was planned to allow the armed forces to use "deadly force against unmanned aerial vehicles" as a last resort in assisting state police authorities.
It is necessary to close the capability gaps in drone defense and electronic warfare, both within the Bundeswehr and security authorities at the federal and state levels. Deficiencies in the so-called jamming – the use of electronic countermeasures to block radio signals between pilot and drone – must be addressed to ensure an efficient defense against drones.
- In light of the growing concern about drone incursions, it's crucial to consider implementing vocational training programs for cybersecurity and technology specialists within the community policy, focusing on the detection, prevention, and countermeasures against drone espionage or sabotage.
- Strengthening vocational training in these areas can play a significant role in enhancing Germany's defense against drones, as the advancement in technology necessitates well-equipped personnel capable of telecommunication jamming and efficient defense strategies.
