Concerns are rising over the coordination of drone defense capabilities within Germany, prompting calls for legislative adjustments to streamline response efforts. Thomas Röwekamp, chairman of the Bundestag’s Defense Committee, has voiced his concern regarding existing disagreements in authority and responsibility, arguing that the current situation is untenable given the evolving threat landscape.
Röwekamp emphasized the need to move beyond jurisdictional disputes and establish clear legal frameworks for countering drone attacks. He stressed that federalist principles should not impede effective defense measures. A unified and efficient capability is required to protect against these threats, irrespective of whether the target is military or civilian, or its location within the country.
The CDU politician welcomed the announcement by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt regarding potential amendments to the Air Security Act. Röwekamp advocates for enhanced capabilities enabling authorities to actively counter drone activity, including the possibility of drone interception. He highlighted the current dispersal of responsibility, with multiple agencies – including the Federal Armed Forces, 16 state police forces and the Federal Police – lacking sufficient technical capabilities for independent action.
Currently, the Federal Armed Forces are primarily responsible for protecting military installations, leaving a significant gap in protection for civilian targets. Röwekamp urged consolidation of capabilities and responsibilities to effectively address current threats, necessitating changes to existing legal regulations.
Specifically, he called for clarification within the Air Security Act allowing the Federal Armed Forces to deploy their capabilities for drone defense to protect civilian infrastructure and critical facilities, including those located at sea, through mutual assistance programs. Furthermore, Röwekamp suggested the creation of a new Maritime Security Act to clearly define the Navy’s responsibility for safeguarding critical infrastructure at sea.
