Germany suspects Russian drones in hybrid warfare
The use of drones for spying on facilities, including military sites, in Germany has significantly increased and is likely part of Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy, Bild reported on Jan. 8, citing Germany’s Ministry of the Interior (BMI).
The officials highlighted that in 2024 alone, police in the Rhineland-Palatinate federal state received nearly 100 reports related to drone activity.
The state's Ministry of the Interior reported that approximately 30 drone observations were recorded near the US military facilities in 2024.
Concerns over government inaction
The Ministry has criticized the federal government for its lack of action on the issue.
“For protecting airspace against espionage and sabotage, federal agencies urgently need appropriate technology for early detection and counter-drone measures,” officials said.
Insiders claimed that none of these drones were intercepted or shot down. They describe the UAVs as “vehicle-sized devices” with an operational range exceeding 188 kilometers (117 miles). This suggests that their takeoffs and landings may be occurring outside German territory.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior asserts that there is “clear evidence” of the large-scale unmanned aerial vehicles presence.
Key areas of concern
Particular concerns have been raised about reconnaissance drone flights over airports and the Bundeswehr and U.S. armed forces's military facilities in Germany. Notable sites include U.S. bases in Ramstein and Spangdahlem.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior has stated that nationwide data on drone-related security threats for 2024 is not yet available.
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