Defence chief: Professional actor behind drone incidents targeting Danish bases

Denmark is facing what officials describe as “systemic” drone incidents targeting airports and military installations, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said, warning that the operations appear to be conducted by a “professional” actor.

Authorities are still investigating the repeated sightings and have not yet identified who is responsible. However, Poulsen stressed that “there are countries or actors who may have an interest in undermining our support for Ukraine,” adding that “it is crucial we do not allow ourselves to be intimidated by Russia.”

The defence minister explained that the drones appear to be launched in close proximity to their targets, raising fresh concerns about their operation and the security of Denmark’s critical infrastructure.

Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said the incidents seem designed to “test boundaries and create fear,” and cautioned that “the threat of hybrid attacks is something here to stay.”

The government is weighing whether to invoke Article 4 of the NATO treaty, which allows members to convene consultations when one of them feels threatened. Poland and Estonia triggered the same clause earlier this month, though Poulsen noted no final decision has been made in Denmark.

Officials acknowledged the disruptions are “completely unsustainable,” saying it was unacceptable for Danish infrastructure to be regularly put out of service. They pledged to reinforce national defences against drones.

Ministers were pressed about the decision not to shoot down drones spotted over sensitive sites, including the Skrydstrup airbase, which houses Denmark’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets. They argued the choice was made based on an operational assessment at the time, but admitted the government must improve its response capacity to future incidents.

On September 26, Denmark will participate in an EU meeting on the proposed “drone wall,” a joint effort to strengthen regional cooperation and learn from Ukraine’s experience in countering airborne threats.

The issue has gained urgency as Copenhagen prepares to host EU leaders for an informal European Council meeting next week.

By Tamilla Hasanova