Copenhagen: Denmark has imposed a nationwide ban on all civilian drone flights this week, ahead of the European Union summit in Copenhagen, citing security concerns.
The country’s transport minister, Thomas Nolsøe Danielsen, confirmed the move, explaining that the measure was intended to ‘simplify security work’ for police and to prevent ‘foreign drones creating uncertainty and disruption.’
The temporary ban will remain in effect until October 3, with violations punishable by fines or prison terms of up to two years. The Ministry of Transport added that Danish police are on ‘significantly increased alert’ as the country, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU Council, prepares to host international leaders.
The restriction follows a series of drone-related security incidents across Denmark. Since 22 September, unidentified drones have repeatedly entered restricted airspace, forcing the closure of Copenhagen and Oslo airports and later suspending operations at Aalborg and Billund airports. On September 29, drones were also spotted above Danish military sites, intensifying security concerns.
Authorities have yet to identify those responsible for the incursions. Danish Defence Minister described the activity as a ‘hybrid attack’ carried out through a ‘systematic operation.’ Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said investigations were ongoing and did not rule out Russian involvement. Moscow, however, ‘firmly rejected’ suggestions of its role.
The issue has triggered a wider European security response. Defence ministers from ten EU states recently agreed to establish a ‘drone wall’ to counter the growing threat, while NATO announced it has stepped up vigilance across the Baltic.
The alliance is already on alert following multiple airspace violations, including incidents last week where approximately 20 Russian drones entered Polish territory and Russian MiG-31 jets crossed into Estonian airspace. Estonia and Poland subsequently requested a NATO consultation.
Drone-related disruptions have not been limited to Denmark. Over the weekend, Norway reported suspicious drone activity near Bronnoysund Airport and around its largest military base.
Romanian authorities also investigated after a Turkish Airlines flight crew spotted a drone over Bucharest airspace on September 28, forcing flight diversions. Earlier this month, Romania passed new laws empowering air force pilots to shoot down unidentified aircraft and drones.
These escalating incursions have underscored the vulnerability of European nations to unmanned aerial threats, leaving Denmark and its allies urgently seeking effective countermeasures to safeguard airspace and critical infrastructure.
ALSO READ | Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco tie knot in star-studded event
