Denmark has hit the brakes on all civilian drone flights. The nationwide ban will last for a week. This move comes just before a major European Union summit kicks off in Copenhagen.
Danish officials say the decision will make security easier for police. They don’t want any unknown drones causing problems. Denmark currently holds the presidency of the EU Council, making the upcoming summit especially important.
The Ministry of Transport announced police have boosted security. Their goal is to keep everyone safe, both Danish citizens and their guests. The ban will stay in place until October 3rd. Anyone caught flying a drone could face a fine or up to two years in prison.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Denmark is one of several European countries reporting odd drone sightings recently. Just last Saturday, a drone was spotted flying over Danish military areas.
Mystery drones have caused trouble since September 22nd. Copenhagen Airport had to close for a short time. Norway’s Oslo Airport also faced temporary shutdowns. Other Danish airports, Aalborg and Billund, halted operations last week because of drone activity.
Investigators haven’t identified who is behind these flights. Yet, Denmark’s Defense Minister called the incidents a “hybrid attack.” He believes it’s part of a “systematic operation.” Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said authorities are still investigating. She did not rule out the possibility of Russian involvement.
Russia has strongly denied any part in these incidents. Still, Europe remains on high alert. Many NATO member countries have reported Russian airspace violations. About 20 Russian drones crossed into Poland. A Russian MiG-31 jet entered Estonia’s airspace last week.
European nations are working together to address this new threat. Defense ministers from ten EU countries agreed to build a “drone wall.” NATO has also “increased its vigilance” across the Baltic Sea region.
Other countries also saw drone incidents this past weekend. In Norway, drones were active near Brønnøysund airport. Suspicious drones also appeared near the country’s largest military base.
Meanwhile, in Romania, flights in Bucharest had to change course. A Turkish Airlines pilot saw a drone near the airport. Romania recently passed a new law. It allows air force pilots to shoot down unidentified aircraft and drones.
Source: BBC