COPENHAGEN, Sept 26: A wave of drone sightings over western Denmark has raised serious security concerns, forcing airport closures and triggering a national debate on defense preparedness, the BBC reported
Though no casualties or damage were reported, the incidents highlighted just how vulnerable Denmark’s critical infrastructure is to modern hybrid threats.
Drones were spotted over Aalborg and Billund airports, as well as near Esbjerg, Sonderborg, and the Skrydstrup airbase, home to Denmark’s F-35 and F-16 fighter jets. Drones were also observed above the Jutland Dragoon regiment in Holstebro. Authorities are now investigating related activity around oil and gas platforms in the North Sea and near the port of Korsor, according to the BBC.
Nepali envoy to Denmark presents letters of credence Denmark K...
Danish defence officials chose not to shoot down the drones, citing risks to public safety. Police have stated they may attempt takedowns if it can be done safely, while the military is prepared to act over sensitive installations depending on threat levels, the BBC said.
The government believes a “professional actor” was behind the incidents, though it has not named a culprit. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has suggested Russia remains a likely long-term threat, a view echoed by Danish security officials, though Moscow has denied involvement and called the events a provocation.
The attacks come amid similar incidents across Nato’s eastern flank. Estonia and Poland recently triggered Nato’s Article 4 consultations after Russian aircraft and drones violated their airspace, with Poland shooting down several drones. Danish leaders are now weighing whether to invoke Article 4 themselves, which would formally bring Nato allies together to discuss a collective response, the BBC noted.
Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen called the drone activity “systematic” and warned it amounted to hybrid warfare. The BBC further added that Denmark’s military and police chiefs held an urgent press conference, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
For now, Danish authorities are boosting surveillance and preparing contingency plans, but no drones have been brought down. The incidents have left Denmark’s security establishment facing a difficult question: how to respond decisively without risking escalation or harm on the ground, the BBC added.
