Is the Drone Incident a Serious Attack on Denmark?
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Synopsis
In a shocking statement, Danish PM Mette Frederiksen labeled the recent drone incident at Copenhagen Airport as a 'serious attack.' As Europe grapples with hybrid threats, this incident raises questions about security and international tensions. What does this mean for Denmark's defense strategy?
Key Takeaways
- Drone incident in Denmark labeled as serious attack.
- Approximately 20,000 passengers affected at Copenhagen Airport.
- Increased surveillance and coordination by Danish National Police.
- Connection to Norway's drone sightings being investigated.
- Denmark announces largest arms acquisition in history.
Oslo, Sep 23 (NationPress) Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated on Tuesday that the drone incident, which led to the temporary closure of Copenhagen Airport late Monday, was a serious attack on Denmark's critical infrastructure. She emphasized that this event should be understood within the larger framework of hybrid threats facing Europe.
"We have observed drone activities over Poland, incidents in Romania, breaches of Estonian airspace, and cyberattacks targeting European airports over the weekend, alongside the drone sightings in Denmark and Norway," Frederiksen remarked to reporters, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Russian involvement cannot be dismissed, underscoring that Europe is currently confronting a series of hybrid attacks and sabotage attempts.
Copenhagen's Kastrup Airport halted its operations for approximately four hours on Monday evening, impacting around 20,000 passengers. The delays and cancellations extended into Tuesday, causing numerous travelers to miss important events such as study trips, honeymoons, business engagements, and sports activities.
The Danish National Police confirmed the activation of the National Operational Staff, a specialized crisis response unit, at its lowest level, which entails increased surveillance and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. The police are treating the incident as a drone attack.
In neighboring Norway, Oslo's Gardermoen Airport also faced closure around midnight Monday due to drone sightings, reopening around 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Norway's Police Security Service is in contact with Danish authorities to determine if the two incidents are related.
Several flights bound for Oslo were redirected to alternative Norwegian airports, leaving passengers stranded overnight. Airlines reported ongoing delays, cancellations, and rerouted services throughout Tuesday. Avinor, the state-owned operator of Norwegian airports, has warned travelers to expect further disruptions.
On September 12, the Danish government unveiled the largest arms procurement in the nation's history, approving an acquisition worth 58 billion Danish kroner (approximately 9.1 billion US dollars) for ground-based air defense systems.
According to Denmark's Ministry of Defense, this deal will include eight medium- and long-range air defense systems sourced from various European manufacturers, including firms from France, Italy, Germany, and Norway.
Denmark has not had ground-based air defense systems since 2005. The new package will introduce SAMP/T long-range systems from a Franco-Italian consortium, supplemented by medium-range systems from manufacturers in Norway, Germany, and France.
The ministry indicated that these systems will offer nationwide coverage, enhancing protection for cities, military sites, and critical infrastructure. The first unit is anticipated to be operational by 2025, with deployment gradually increasing thereafter.
This announcement follows an earlier package revealed in June, valued at over 6 billion Danish kroner, aimed at rapidly establishing air-defense capabilities. Collectively, these procurements aim to create a layered defense of Denmark's airspace.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the gravity of the situation. Denmark, amidst rising hybrid threats, must prioritize the safety of its critical infrastructure. The government’s proactive stance and recent defense acquisitions signal a commitment to safeguarding national interests.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the drone incident in Denmark?
The drone incident involved the temporary closure of Copenhagen Airport, which was deemed a serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
How did the drone incident affect passengers?
Approximately 20,000 passengers were affected, facing delays, cancellations, and missed important events such as study trips and business engagements.
What measures are being taken in response to the incident?
The Danish National Police activated a special crisis response unit for heightened surveillance and coordination, treating the case as a drone attack.
Is there a connection between the incidents in Denmark and Norway?
Norway's Police Security Service is currently in discussions with Danish authorities to determine if the drone sightings at Oslo's Gardermoen Airport are linked to the incident in Denmark.
What recent defense policy changes has Denmark made?
Denmark has announced a historic arms procurement for ground-based air defense systems, aiming to enhance its security amid rising hybrid threats.
