The increasing threat posed by drones is prompting a reassessment of Germany’s established security protocols, according to a prominent voice within the Social Democratic Party (SPD). Reinhold Robbe, a defense expert and former parliamentary commissioner for the military, argues for a revision of the long-held principle that divides responsibility for internal and external security between the police and the Bundeswehr (German armed forces).
Robbe, in an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, stated that this rigid separation is no longer adequate in the face of hybrid threats, including persistent cyberattacks and drone deployments. He advocates for a response tailored to the actual capabilities of security agencies, emphasizing that Germany is no longer dealing with a predictable, rules-based state due to the actions of the current Russian leadership. He cited Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing conflict as stark illustrations of this reality, highlighting Russia’s disregard for international law and human rights standards.
Robbe’s proposal calls for a swift adjustment of legal frameworks and resource allocation within security agencies to properly address these escalating threats. He underscored the need for a broader societal discourse on these vital issues, asserting that public understanding is crucial for enabling the government to implement necessary changes. He specifically called for resolving the confusion surrounding responsibility for countering unidentified drones.
However, the proposition is not without internal debate. Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) previously cautioned against expansive deployments of the Bundeswehr within Germany for drone defense, maintaining that drone incidents are a core task for the police. While acknowledging a need for adjustments to the legal framework, she stressed the importance of maintaining strict limitations on military involvement within the country. Hubig reiterated that such deployments are permissible only under highly specific conditions.
