Denmark Imposes Temporary Drone Ban Amid Security Concerns

Denmark has announced a temporary ban on civilian drone flights this week after recent disturbances near military installations and Copenhagen Airport. The decision comes ahead of the European Council meeting in Copenhagen on Wednesday and the European Political Community gathering the following day, both focusing on defense and Ukraine.

Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen stated, "We cannot accept that foreign drones create uncertainty and disruption in society as we have experienced recently." He emphasized the need for heightened security as Denmark prepares to host EU leaders.

In support of these measures, a German frigate, the FSG Hamburg, has arrived in Copenhagen to assist with airspace surveillance.

The past week has seen multiple drone sightings of unidentified origin over Denmark, prompting Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to declare that Europe is "at hybrid war." Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted the challenging security situation, noting the necessity to ensure optimal working conditions for the Armed Forces and Police during the EU summit.

Similar incidents have occurred in neighboring countries, with Russian drones and aircraft violating Polish and Estonian airspace in recent weeks. Poland responded by scrambling jets and temporarily closing parts of its airspace during a Russian attack on Ukraine.

Companies may apply for exemptions from the drone ban in exceptional cases by contacting the Transport Ministry. Unauthorized drone flights between Monday and Friday will be subject to fines or up to two years in prison.