Unidentified Drones Sighted Over Multiple Airports in Denmark

On Wednesday evening, several airports across Denmark reported sightings of unidentified drones. The incidents occurred at Aalborg, Esbjerg, and Sönderborg airports, as well as at the Skrydstrup Air Base. Unlike Copenhagen Airport, which had to close for hours on Monday evening due to similar sightings, these smaller airports did not experience significant disruptions to civil aviation, though they do hold military importance.

The Danish police confirmed that reports of drone activity began shortly after 9:44 PM. Witnesses noted that the drones appeared at nearly the same time at the different locations. The government has characterized the coordinated drone flights as a hybrid attack, asserting that the level of organization displayed indicates a calculated operation rather than mere recreational flying by amateur drone enthusiasts. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that what was observed represents a systematic operation.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, many questions remain unanswered. At a press conference on Thursday morning, officials struggled to provide specifics about the nature of the drones involved. Available images and videos only depict illuminated objects in the sky, with no detailed descriptions regarding their size, design, or construction materials. Reports suggest that authorities had hoped for more substantial photographic evidence and eyewitness accounts following the earlier incident in Copenhagen.

Concerns have also been raised about Denmark's preparedness to deal with such incursions, especially following the recent Copenhagen event that alarmed authorities and the public alike. It remains unclear why early warning systems failed to activate upon the drones' entry into Danish airspace. Additionally, the identity of those responsible for the drone operations is still unknown.

When questioned about why the drones, which lingered over the airports for an extended period, were not shot down--particularly over a military installation where civilian casualties could be minimized--officials provided evasive answers. They acknowledged the capability to intercept the drones but indicated that a decision was made to allow them to continue their flight. Danish media speculate that there may be legal considerations that need to be addressed before taking such actions. Furthermore, discussions are underway regarding the need to enhance Denmark's technical capabilities in this area.

Politically, reactions have been swift and critical. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the Copenhagen incident as one of the most severe attacks on Denmark's critical infrastructure to date. The recent drone sightings have sparked debates regarding the adequacy of Denmark's preventive measures and response strategies. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard suggested that the intent behind hybrid attacks like these may be to incite fear, create division, and intimidate the public.