Denmark Probes Drone Incursions as Hybrid Attacks

Danish authorities say overnight drone incursions that forced the temporary shutdown of two airports and targeted military sites were deliberate hybrid attacks aimed at spreading fear. Billund Airport was shut for an hour, while Aalborg Airport, which handles both civilian and military flights, was closed for three hours. Drones were also spotted near Esbjerg, Sønderborg, Skrydstrup airbase—home to Denmark’s F-16s and F-35s—and a military facility in Holstebro.

Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the pattern of incidents was systematic but stressed there was no direct military threat to Denmark. The incursions follow similar disruptions earlier this week at Copenhagen Airport. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously linked the activity to suspected Russian operations, though Moscow has denied involvement.

The government has not decided whether to invoke NATO’s Article 4 for consultations, as Poland recently did after downing drones over its territory. The incidents come just days after Denmark announced plans to acquire long-range precision weapons in response to Russian threats.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale