Germany Empowers Police to Neutralize Rogue Drones Amid Rising Security Threats

                                     A sign with a drone ban is displayed outside the airport in Munich

Germany is moving to strengthen its domestic security by granting federal police the authority to shoot down drones that pose a threat to public safety and critical infrastructure. The decision follows a surge in drone sightings over airports, military bases, and industrial sites, many of which officials suspect are linked to Russian surveillance efforts.

The new legislation, announced by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and approved by the cabinet, will allow police to use a range of countermeasures—including electromagnetic pulses, jamming technology, and, if necessary, direct fire—to disable unmanned aerial vehicles. A dedicated counter-drone unit will also be established within the federal police.

The move comes after repeated disruptions at Munich Airport, where rogue drones forced the cancellation or diversion of dozens of flights, stranding thousands of passengers. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that Germany “will not allow itself to be intimidated” and vowed to defend the country against hybrid threats.

Germany joins other European nations, including France, Britain, and Lithuania, in expanding police powers to combat the growing risks posed by drones. The law still requires parliamentary approval but is expected to pass swiftly given the urgency of recent incidents.