Hesse Bolsters Drone Defense: Authorizes Shooting Down Threats

Hesse leads the way in drone defense. Its enhanced measures include detecting, capturing, and eliminating threats, with security forces authorized to shoot down drones in critical situations.

, and Administrator

2025 October 5 . 10:04 AM

1 min read

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Rhine: "We must tackle drone threat with toughness" - Hesse Bolsters Drone Defense: Authorizes Shooting Down Threats

Drones of unknown origin have caused disruptions at Munich and Frankfurt airports, while sightings over critical infrastructure have raised concerns across Germany and Denmark. Hesse, however, is at the forefront of legal drone defense, with Minister-President Boris Rhein announcing enhanced measures to counter the threat.

Hesse has been proactive in addressing drone security. As early as 2024, it enabled effective anti-drone measures in its police law, a pioneering move in Germany. Now, the state is further bolstering its capabilities. Rhein's strategy involves three key steps: detecting, capturing, and eliminating drones that pose a risk to people or critical infrastructure.

The Hessian government plans to expand drone protection measures and grant security forces the authority to shoot down drones in acute danger situations. This approach reflects the need for coordinated action between federal and state governments, as emphasized by Rhein. The minister-president's announcement follows recent disruptions caused by drones, including those at Munich and Frankfurt airports and over critical infrastructure in Germany, as well as air traffic disruptions in Denmark.

Hesse's proactive stance on drone defense serves as a model for other German states. With Rhein's announcement of enhanced detection and defense capabilities, including the authorization for security forces to shoot down drones in critical situations, the state is preparing to tackle the growing drone threat effectively.