Danish authorities plan to authorize airports to bring down unmanned aerial vehicles if necessary.
In response to growing concerns over drone activity, the Danish government has proposed a new security law that would authorize airports, ports, and other critical infrastructure to neutralize drones that pose a threat to their operations. The proposal, led by Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen, is currently in the initial consultation phase and aims to strengthen preparedness in the transportation sector.
The proposed law would allow certain public authorities and infrastructure managers responsible for critical areas, such as airports, ports, and bridges, to neutralize drones that operate illegally or are used for criminal purposes such as espionage, sabotage, or smuggling. The law applies only to non-cooperative drones operating in geographically designated drone zones around these critical infrastructure sites.
The ability to neutralize drones would be granted to these authorities and managers, allowing them to act promptly to protect security and operations. However, there will be requirements and safeguards to ensure responsible use of these powers. For instance, public authorities and infrastructure operators would be allowed to take action against drones that refuse to cooperate in areas designated as "drone zones."
The increased drone activity in Danish airspace poses significant security risks and operational dangers at critical infrastructure sites. Last year, incidents involving drones flying too high or too close to airports saw a sharp rise. In 2023, illegal drone flights led to repeated closures of the airspace over Aalborg Airport, according to North Jutland Police.
The action that could be taken includes jamming signals or physically neutralizing the drones, such as shooting them down. In January 2023, unidentified drones were repeatedly sighted near the town of Køge, but the operator was never identified.
The bill was publicly opened for consultation until August 21, 2025. The proposal does not specify the exact criteria for designating areas as "drone zones" or the consequences for drone operators who refuse to cooperate in these zones. It also does not detail when the law would come into effect if it is passed.
In summary, the law would legally authorize airports and ports, through designated authorities, to shoot down or disable drones that illegally interfere with or threaten their operations, focusing on security and safety at critical infrastructure locations. The proposal is part of a broader effort to strengthen preparedness in the transportation sector in Denmark.
The proposal to strengthen security at critical infrastructure sites, such as airports and ports, includes the authorization for authorities to neutralize non-cooperative drones found in designated "drone zones". This legislation covers the use of drones for criminal activities like espionage, sabotage, or smuggling. In the realm of technology and general news, this development highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in protecting national infrastructures. Furthermore, the increase in drone activity in Danish airspace has raised concerns about security risks and operational dangers, particularly in politics and space, emphasizing the need for such legislation.
