Camilla Jessen
After multiple drone sightings, German police have installed a laser-based detection system.
After repeated drone sightings forced flight suspensions at Munich Airport, German police have installed a laser-based system to spot and track drones as authorities search for who is behind the incidents.
Laser system added to airport security
German police have set up a laser-based system near one of Munich Airport’s main runways after several drone sightings disrupted flights, Bild reported Oct. 5.
The new system helps officers detect drones in the air, measure their distance and movement, and better coordinate with response teams if action is needed.
Flights grounded and passengers delayed
Munich Airport — Germany’s second busiest — was forced to shut down twice in 24 hours after drones were spotted in restricted airspace.
The shutdowns caused dozens of cancellations and delays, leaving thousands of travelers stranded.
Airport staff opened emergency rest areas and provided food for passengers waiting overnight.
Police and intelligence agencies take over
Germany’s Federal Police confirmed that special units have been stationed at the airport to handle the situation.
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the Central Office for Counterterrorism and Extremism are leading the investigation into who may be behind the drone activity.
High-tech vehicles on the runway
The Frankfurter Rundschau reported that two police vehicles with radar and laser detection systems were spotted near the runway.
Security officials told Bild the laser equipment is mainly being used to locate and follow drones, giving police better awareness of the airspace.
It’s unclear if the devices can also be used to disable drones or only to track them.
Military provides technical help
The German military, or Bundeswehr, is also helping police track down and identify drones flying over sensitive areas in Bavaria, FAZ reported.
Their equipment supports both civilian and military sites that could be potential targets for drone activity.
New counter-drone teams across Germany
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said new “counter-drone units” are being formed nationwide to deal with the growing number of drone threats.
“These systems are no longer optional — they are essential,” Dobrindt said during a briefing in Berlin.
Possible foreign involvement
Earlier, The Guardian quoted Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya, who claimed Russia had activated sleeper agents across the European Union to carry out drone disruptions near airports and military bases.
German authorities have not confirmed any link but say they are investigating all leads.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
