Denmark boosts security at European summits with anti-drone support
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France, Germany, and Sweden are sending troops and anti-drone systems to Denmark, while NATO boosts surveillance amid rising concerns over Russia’s role.
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Soldiers use a wave jammer, left, or riffles during a demonstration on anti-drone fight at the Air Base 942 of Lyon-Mont Verdun, central France, Friday, March 22, 2024, in Poleymieux-au-Mont-d'Or (AP)
Denmark is stepping up security measures for this week’s European summits in Copenhagen after a wave of drone incursions disrupted air traffic and raised fears of hybrid threats. France, Germany, and Sweden said on Monday, September 29, that they will send military personnel and anti-drone systems to assist Danish forces, while NATO strengthens its presence in the Baltic Sea.
Copenhagen is set to host EU leaders on Wednesday, followed by the wider 47-member European Political Community summit on Thursday. In preparation, Denmark has already heightened security after drones forced temporary closures at six airports, including Copenhagen, the Nordic region’s busiest.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the incidents as a “hybrid attack", underlining the growing threat facing European security.
Denmark has not definitively identified those responsible, but Frederiksen has suggested Russia could be behind the incursions, describing Moscow as the primary “country that poses a threat to European security.” The Kremlin denies any involvement.
Last week’s incidents followed a series of alleged Russian drone incursions elsewhere in Europe.
Read more: Sweden's Saab to deliver first anti-drone missile in 2026
Allies deploy anti-drone systems and military personnel
In response to Denmark’s request for assistance, several European allies are sending military support to Copenhagen.
France will deploy a Fennec military helicopter along with a 35-member team tasked with countering drone activity during the summits.
Germany confirmed it will send around 40 soldiers equipped to detect, identify, and neutralize drones. The deployment will run until October 7.
Sweden announced it is providing counter-UAS technology, radar systems, and a police force to support Denmark. Norwegian law enforcement officers will also join the security effort.
Read more: Russia slams US-Denmark military pact as threat to its security
NATO response and wider concerns over Russia
NATO has upgraded its mission in the Baltic Sea in response to the drone activity in Denmark. Over the weekend, a German air defense frigate arrived in Copenhagen to assist with airspace surveillance.
On Sunday, Denmark further tightened restrictions by banning civilian drone flights after several were spotted over military facilities.
The heightened measures underscore the seriousness of the drone threat and its implications for European security.
As Denmark hosts critical European summits, the cooperation of allies and NATO demonstrates a united front, even as suspicions of Russian involvement highlight the fragility of the regional security environment.
