Germany is moving forward with plans to allow its military to shoot down unauthorized drones near critical infrastructure, a bold step that the Biden administration has avoided despite facing similar challenges.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced a proposal to authorize the German armed forces to engage drones that threaten public safety or vital facilities. This move responds to a surge in drone sightings over military bases, raising fears of espionage and sabotage.
In one alarming incident, at least 10 drones were detected flying over Manching Air Base. Additional reports came from Neuburg an der Donau and near the US Ramstein Air Base. German officials believe these incidents could be linked to foreign surveillance, possibly by Russia.
In contrast, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas rejected calls to shoot down drones over American military sites in December, calling such actions “dangerous.” This decision has been criticized for leaving US military operations vulnerable to foreign interference.
European leaders are growing increasingly concerned about Russia’s covert operations. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently confirmed that Russia plotted “air terror” attacks targeting global airlines. Western intelligence also suspects Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU, is behind infrastructure sabotage across Europe.
Germany’s decision to empower its military highlights the growing divide in how Western nations respond to emerging threats. While Germany strengthens its defenses, the Biden administration’s reluctance to act raises concerns over national security.
