Military experts have raised concerns about the growing threat posed to European flights by drone technology developed during the Ukraine conflict. This week, Copenhagen’s airports were twice forced to shut down due to unmanned aerial vehicles. Denmark’s defense minister described these incidents as part of a professional hybrid attack, with drones breaching the airspace over four airports in a single night. A similar situation occurred at Oslo airport, where a drone was seized for flying within the exclusion zone.
Flight disruptions were significant, with 109 cancellations and 51 diversions at Copenhagen airport, and 19 cancellations and 11 diversions at Oslo airport. Drone incursions have also been reported in Poland and Romania, although the responsible party remains unknown, despite Russia’s denial of involvement.
The potential risks are substantial, as drones can endanger aircraft during critical moments like take-off and landing, leading to flight delays and diversions. Karl Rosander, CEO of Nordic Air Defence, emphasized the seriousness of these incidents, highlighting the escalating use of drones for malicious purposes.
The conflict in Ukraine has accelerated the development of drone warfare, with a notable increase in drone-related casualties. Ukraine has ramped up its drone production, moving away from reliance on Chinese models that were initially used for offensive purposes.
To counter these threats, discussions around a “drone wall” to protect Eastern Europe have gained momentum. Companies like Nordic Air Defence are investing in anti-drone technologies to counter potential aerial disruptions effectively.
In addition to drone threats, cybersecurity expert Joe Jones highlighted the rising concern of cyber attacks on airports, citing recent incidents in the UK and across Europe. The aviation sector faces a growing risk from cyber threats, with a reported 600% increase in attacks over the past year.
The aviation industry must acknowledge the persistent danger posed by drones and cyber attacks, necessitating proactive measures such as improved partnerships, training, and technology to ensure real-time monitoring and response capabilities. Ignoring these threats could lead to severe disruptions, affecting thousands of passengers and critical infrastructure.