UPDATE: Renewed drone sightings at Danish military facilities have sparked urgent security concerns. The Danish Defence Ministry confirmed that “drones have been observed at several of Danish defence facilities” overnight, intensifying fears following multiple incidents earlier in the week.
The latest incidents occurred near Karup Air Base, Denmark’s largest military base, as well as other locations. Reports indicate drone activity was noted around 8 PM on September 29, 2023. Local media reported drones flying both inside and outside the air base’s perimeter, leading to a temporary closure of the airspace for civil traffic, although this had limited impact due to no ongoing commercial flights.
Officials have not confirmed drone sightings at Karup or other sites, citing “operational security” and an ongoing investigation. However, a statement clarified that reports of drone activity at Skrydstrup Air Base and the Jutland Dragoon Regiment pertained to earlier sightings, not the recent incidents.
There is growing public anxiety as citizens have reported over hundreds of potential drone sightings that remain unverified. The Danish Minister of Justice, Peter Hummelgaard, emphasized that these flyovers aim to instill fear, prompting the government to explore new legislation that would empower infrastructure owners to take action against drones.
“It’s about being prepared so that critical infrastructure or large gatherings of people can be protected,” said Alexander Dobrindt, Germany’s Interior Minister, as he acknowledged similar drone threats in the neighboring state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark.
In response to this escalating situation, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local police. The Danish government is currently assessing additional defensive measures to address the rising threat of drones, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions linked to alleged Russian aggression.
As the investigation continues, both Denmark and Germany are collaborating on security strategies. Dobrindt stated that the threat from drones is considered “high,” prompting discussions on revising aviation security laws to allow military intervention against unauthorized drones.
This developing situation is critical not only for national security but also for the safety of civilians, as authorities scramble to understand the motives behind these unsettling drone activities. Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
