The debate surrounding the expansion of drone defense capabilities in Germany has taken a cautious turn, with the Police Union (GdP) raising concerns about potential risks. Following recent discussions initiated by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU), the union has emphasized the need for a carefully managed approach.
Andreas Roßkopf, head of the GdP for the Federal Police, cautioned in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” that the indiscriminate shoot-down of drones within Germany, particularly near critical infrastructure like airports, would present an unpredictable and potentially dangerous risk.
Roßkopf stressed the importance of ensuring controlled deactivation and controlled landing of drones within German territory to avoid endangering uninvolved parties. He noted that the Federal Police are currently involved in trials exploring various defensive measures.
However, he also highlighted a significant deficiency: the current lack of comprehensive equipment across police forces. This includes both jamming devices to disrupt the communications of illegal and hazardous drones and advanced technologies such as counter-drone systems capable of capturing and safely landing unauthorized aerial vehicles. Roßkopf urged for rapid action to address this equipment gap.
