The proposed expansion of drone defense capabilities in Germany is prompting a cautionary perspective from the Police Union (GdP), highlighting potential risks associated with aggressive countermeasures.
Andreas Roßkopf, head of the GdP for the Federal Police, cautioned in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” that simply shooting down drones within German territory, particularly near critical infrastructure like airports, would present an “unpredictable risk”. He emphasized the necessity of employing controlled methods to disable and bring drones down safely, minimizing the potential for harm to bystanders.
Roßkopf stressed the importance of establishing procedures to ensure a secure and accountable deactivation process. He confirmed that the Federal Police are currently engaged in testing various drone defense techniques.
However, he also noted a significant shortfall in the nationwide availability of necessary equipment. This includes both jamming devices to disrupt communication with illicit drones and more sophisticated technologies like counter-drone systems capable of intercepting and safely landing unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles. Roßkopf urged for swift action to address this equipment deficit and bolster national drone defense capabilities.