Due to rising drone flights over military sites, chemical parks, and critical infrastructure—especially since late 2024 amid the Russia-Ukraine war—the German federal cabinet has approved a legal amendment permitting the Bundeswehr to shoot down drones in the airspace over these sensitive locations. Previously, the armed forces could only take non-lethal measures outside military compounds. The new rules restrict drone shootdowns to situations posing threats to human life or critical infrastructure such as energy or telecommunications hubs. The Interior Minister highlighted the serious risk drones pose for espionage and sabotage. Police have enhanced their anti-drone technology and notably used jamming successfully during major public events. The Bundeswehr also relies on existing quick-response alarm squadrons able to deploy fighter jets within 15 minutes. However, the Bundestag's approval is pending, with opposition parties expressing constitutional and practical concerns. This development illustrates increased security measures against hybrid threats involving drone espionage and sabotage possibly linked to Russian activities.

Due to rising drone flights over military sites, chemical parks, and critical infrastructure—especially since late 2024 amid the Russia-Ukraine war—the German federal cabinet has approved a legal amendment permitting the Bundeswehr to shoot down drones in the airspace over these sensitive locations. Previously, the armed forces could only take non-lethal measures outside military compounds. The new rules restrict drone shootdowns to situations posing threats to human life or critical infrastructure such as energy or telecommunications hubs. The Interior Minister highlighted the serious risk drones pose for espionage and sabotage. Police have enhanced their anti-drone technology and notably used jamming successfully during major public events. The Bundeswehr also relies on existing quick-response alarm squadrons able to deploy fighter jets within 15 minutes. However, the Bundestag's approval is pending, with opposition parties expressing constitutional and practical concerns. This development illustrates increased security measures against hybrid threats involving drone espionage and sabotage possibly linked to Russian activities.