Merz calls to acquire drone defense systems amid security threats

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has called for the rapid acquisition of drone defense systems. “There are technologies in the world that make it possible to counter these – we need them,” Merz said on Sunday evening during the ARD program Caren Miosga. The rising number of drone incidents represents a “serious threat to our security,” the Chancellor added. “The assumption is that Russia is behind most of these drone flights,” Merz continued. “This threat comes from those who want to test us.”

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Merz advocated for allowing drones to be shot down domestically by the Bundeswehr if necessary. While the primary responsibility lies with the police, he said, “the police can involve the Bundeswehr through official assistance, and this will happen if necessary.” The Chancellor noted that the “scale” of recent drone incidents is unprecedented. Fortunately, he said, “there has not been a single incident or event involving an armed drone so far.” According to Merz, the incidents are “reconnaissance attempts” and attempts “to unsettle the population.”

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Merz strongly warned the public against imitating such actions. “Flying drones near airports in Germany is strictly prohibited,” he said. “Anyone who violates this commits a serious interference with air traffic, and it can be punished with long prison sentences. Those who think this is a game need to understand that.” He also highlighted Russia as a significant threat to Europe. “Russia wants to destroy the entire post-war political order, and we must defend ourselves against this, and we are doing so,” Merz said. Assistance to Ukraine, he added, is also intended “to deter Russia from attacking other countries in Europe.”

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“This could next affect Moldova, the Baltic states, or Poland,” Merz warned. “We must make NATO strong enough to deter Russia.” The Chancellor’s remarks come after drone sightings near and over Munich Airport forced operations at Germany’s second-largest airport to halt on Thursday and again on Friday. Reports of drone incidents have also increased in other parts of the country.

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