Security Measures Intensify in Copenhagen
Denmark has imposed a nationwide ban on civilian drone flights this week as it prepares to host a high-profile European Union summit in Copenhagen. The transport ministry said the restriction was necessary to “simplify security work” for police, stressing that authorities could not allow “foreign drones creating uncertainty and disruption.”
The ban, effective until October 3, comes amid a series of drone sightings over Danish military sites, including incidents as recent as Saturday. Officials warned that violations could carry fines or imprisonment of up to two years. Police remain on heightened alert ahead of the summit, which will bring together EU leaders under Denmark’s rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.
Nordic and European Support
Several allies have pledged assistance to bolster Denmark’s defenses. Sweden confirmed it will deploy “military anti-drone capabilities” and provide radar systems to support security efforts during the summit. France also committed resources, sending a specialist helicopter and 35 experts to Copenhagen.
The stepped-up measures follow a pledge by defense ministers from 10 EU countries to create a joint “drone wall” along the bloc’s eastern frontier, aimed at countering potential incursions. NATO has also announced “enhanced vigilance” across the Baltic region.
Pattern of Drone Incursions
Unidentified drones have been repeatedly reported across Denmark since September 22, when flights over Copenhagen and Oslo airports forced temporary closures. Similar disruptions occurred last week at Aalborg and Billund airports. Denmark’s defense minister described the incidents as a “hybrid attack” forming part of a “systematic operation.”
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said investigations are ongoing and did not rule out Russian involvement. Moscow denied any role, rejecting what it called “unfounded accusations.” Russia has previously been accused of carrying out hybrid attacks across Europe.
Regional Drone Threats Spread
The concerns extend beyond Denmark. Norway reported drone activity over Bronnoysund Airport on Sunday and possible sightings near its largest military base. In Romania, flights were diverted at Bucharest airport after pilots reported spotting a drone. Romania has recently passed legislation empowering air force pilots to shoot down unidentified drones or aircraft.
Meanwhile, Estonia and Poland requested NATO consultations last week after Russian drones entered Polish territory and MiG-31 jets crossed into Estonian airspace. The wave of incursions has underscored Europe’s heightened vulnerability to hybrid tactics as regional tensions remain elevated.
