Lower Saxony Police Investigate Drone Activity Over Bundeswehr Arsenal
Police in Lower Saxony have confirmed the identification of multiple individuals suspected of operating drones over the Bundeswehr’s marine arsenal in Wilhelmshaven. The incidents, reported by “Der Spiegel”, have prompted investigations into potential violations of aviation law and suspicions of reconnaissance activity within a security-sensitive area.
According to a police statement, five separate instances of drone operation were detected in May and June. Authorities have initiated inquiries regarding infringements of the Luftverkehrsordnung (Air Traffic Regulations) and are examining the possibility of unauthorized surveillance.
While concerns have arisen regarding potential involvement by Russia, police officials have stated that there is currently no substantiated evidence to suggest that the actions were directly commissioned by external parties. Preliminary findings indicate that those identified as suspects are “primarily civilian drone pilots lacking a discernible professional background”. At this time, no evidence has been uncovered to suggest a direct link to intelligence agencies or military organizations.
The incidents underscore a broader trend of increasing drone activity over sensitive locations, including military installations, industrial parks and critical infrastructure. Identifying the operators involved in such occurrences has proven challenging, with successful identification remaining relatively infrequent.
