Drone incidents at airports and military bases across Jutland, western Denmark, have not resulted in any harm or damage; however, they have uncovered serious vulnerabilities in the country’s defenses.
In this age of hybrid warfare, Denmark, as a founding member of NATO, faces embarrassment over its crucial infrastructure becoming so exposed.
Aalborg and Billund airports were forced to close due to drone sightings, disrupting operations while military bases like Aalborg and Skrydstrup, the latter housing F-35 and F-16 warplanes, were also impacted. Drones were spotted near various locations, including military installations.
Police are now investigating drone activities around Denmark's oil and gas platforms in the North Sea and around the port of Korsor.
The Danish military now finds itself at a crossroads, evaluating appropriate responses to these aerial incursions amidst fears of hybrid warfare tactics being employed against it.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen described these incidents as indicative of a systematic threat, while Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has acknowledged potential Russian involvement.
The Danish government has avoided shooting down the drones so far, opting instead to prioritize public safety and the potential consequences of doing so. However, experts argue that such a non-responsive stance is not sustainable.
Discussions about invoking NATO's Article 4, which convenes alliance members for consultations regarding threats to a member's security, are underway as the country grapples with its new reality.
A warning to other nations has been issued as several have also experienced similar drone incursions and hybrid threats recently, emphasizing Denmark's need for enhanced defense measures.
In conclusion, while the immediate threat level remains managed, Denmark recognizes the need to adapt its military capabilities in the face of emerging aerial warfare tactics.
