Denmark has reached out to NATO following a drone incident at one of its airports. Inbound flights to Aalborg Airport were redirected after the airport, which is also used by the military, was closed due to drone activity in its airspace.
Authorities stated that drones were sighted near Aalborg Airport, leading to the closure of airspace with police investigating the situation. The drones were observed flying illuminated.
While Denmark has informed NATO about the intrusion, they have not confirmed invoking Article 4, which allows a member state to raise concerns over territorial sovereignty threats. This should not be confused with Article 5, which pertains to collective defense among member states.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen described the drone incident as a “hybrid attack” possibly orchestrated by a skilled individual, indicating that the drones may have been launched locally. There is currently no evidence linking Russia to the incident. However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen mentioned that Russian involvement cannot be ruled out, particularly considering a previous drone-related incident at Copenhagen Airport.
During a press conference, Poulsen highlighted the sophistication of the operation, suggesting it was the work of a professional actor conducting a coordinated attack using various drones simultaneously.
Poulsen mentioned that the Danish armed forces had the capability to intercept the drones but refrained from doing so to prevent risks to civilians. This incident follows the recent closure of Copenhagen Airport due to drone sightings, causing significant disruptions.
Reports indicate that up to three autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles were detected over Copenhagen Airport, prompting a swift police response to the area.
