The German Federal Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, is calling for increased investment and research to bolster defenses against hostile drone activity. Following recent drone sightings over Munich, Dobrindt stated in an interview with “Bild” that the escalating competition between drone threats and defense capabilities necessitates a significant increase in funding, promotion and research efforts, both nationally and within the European Union.
A draft amendment to the German Police Act, scheduled for consideration on Wednesday, aims to reinforce regulations regarding drone interceptions within the country.
However, Felix Banaszak, leader of the Green Party, has accused Minister Dobrindt of inaction regarding the drone threat. He criticized what he perceives as a delayed response, indicating that a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing incidents remains lacking.
Banaszak pointed to Russia’s alleged use of drones, cyberattacks and sabotage as part of a broader strategy to destabilize Europe, emphasizing that this “hybrid threat” has been present for some time. He stressed the urgency for the German government to take decisive action, warning that continued inaction poses a risk to both internal and external security.
Specifically, Banaszak is demanding that Dobrindt convene a collaborative forum to develop clear and pragmatic solutions for addressing drone issues and effectively protecting critical infrastructure. He further advocated for improved cooperation between federal and state security agencies and the swift passage of the delayed “KRITIS-Dachgesetz” a law designed to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure. This legislation, recently approved by the Federal Cabinet, is currently awaiting parliamentary approval by the Bundestag.