Authorities Investigate Serious Threat to Critical Infrastructure
Copenhagen Airport, one of Northern Europe’s busiest travel hubs, was shut down for nearly four hours on Monday evening following reports of multiple drone incursions. The disruption, which began around 20:26 local time, forced the suspension of takeoffs and landings and caused widespread delays and diversions affecting tens of thousands of passengers, according to Reuters.
Large, Skilled Drone Operation
Witnesses reported seeing two or three large drones flying near the airport. Danish police stated that the aircraft were flown in deliberate patterns, with lights switched on and off, and approached the airfield from different directions. The drones were operated with what authorities described as a “capable” level of skill and coordination, suggesting more than a casual incursion (AP News).
While no physical damage or injuries were reported, officials emphasized that the operation was intentional and targeted critical national infrastructure. Flights resumed only after several hours, once the airspace was deemed secure.
Government and Security Response
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the incident “the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date”. Authorities are investigating how the drones entered restricted airspace and whether they may have been launched from land or even from vessels in the Baltic Sea.
The Copenhagen incursion coincided with similar disruptions reported at Oslo Airport in Norway. Officials have not confirmed whether the two incidents are connected, but both have raised questions about the vulnerability of airports and other sensitive facilities to drone interference.
Broader Concerns
The incident highlights growing concern across Europe about hybrid threats—unconventional acts that fall short of open military conflict but still disrupt national security and daily life. While some Danish officials have suggested potential links to Russian operations, no definitive evidence has been presented, and Russia has denied involvement.
For Denmark and its regional partners, the event underscores the urgent need for enhanced counter-drone technology and coordinated strategies to protect airports and other key assets. As drone capabilities advance, ensuring the security of critical infrastructure remains a pressing challenge for governments worldwide.
Read more:
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
