SPD politician Siemtje Möller stated that, following the drone incident at Leipzig Airport, she does not believe it is necessary to expand the responsibilities of the Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) within domestic affairs. According to the SPD’s Deputy Parliamentary Group Chairwoman, the key factor was the seamless cooperation and effective information sharing among relevant federal authorities; therefore, the focus should be on removing existing obstacles rather than broadening the military’s jurisdiction.
Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, the SPD defense policy expert added that the collective drone defense center successfully gathered the correct capabilities in the right places, but these capacities must now be rapidly expanded. Furthermore, it is crucial to examine how private operators of critical infrastructure in Germany, particularly airports, can be better supported in protecting themselves against drones and other hybrid attacks. Möller emphasized that the Leipzig Airport event highlighted the serious nature of the threat posed by hybrid dangers.
The incident referenced involved the discovery of an explosive-laden drone at the Leipzig/Halle Airport last week. An airport employee brought the device down before specialists from the Federal Police were able to neutralize it. The Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating the matter, suspecting a targeted attack potentially related to hybrid assaults on critical infrastructure. Russia has denied any involvement in the attack.
