Denmark Uncovers "Professional Actor" Behind Mysterious Drone Incursions Over Airports

Denmark Says "Professional Actor" Behind Drone Incursions Over Its Airports COPENHAGEN, DENMARK - In a bizarre incident that has raised concerns about national security, Denmark's Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen revealed on Wednesday that the recent drone incursions over its airports appear to be the work of a "professional actor." The statement came after Aalborg airport was forced to shut down for several hours due to green lights spotted overhead. According to Poulsen, the drones were flown locally and were part of a "systematic operation" designed to interfere with Denmark's infrastructure or institutions. This type of attack is known as a "hybrid attack," which combines military and non-military tactics to disrupt a nation's operations. The incident marked the second time in a week that drone activity disrupted Denmark's airspace, following a similar incident at Copenhagen airport on Monday. Billund airport also briefly closed due to drone sightings, while three smaller airports reported similar incidents. Poulsen emphasized that there was no evidence of Russian involvement in the drone incursions, contrary to earlier speculation. "We have not found any indication of foreign involvement," he said during a news conference. "This is a domestic operation." The use of drones to disrupt air traffic poses significant risks, particularly during take-off or landing when planes are most vulnerable to collision. Halting flights to avoid this risk can cause delays and redirect flights elsewhere. Drone technology has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with many models capable of flying autonomously using GPS coordinates. This has raised concerns about the potential for malicious use of drones, particularly in sensitive areas such as airports. The incident highlights the need for improved security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Poulsen acknowledged that Denmark's authorities are working closely with international partners to address the issue. As the investigation continues, experts warn that the increasing availability of drone technology could lead to more sophisticated and coordinated attacks on national infrastructure. "This is a wake-up call for governments around the world," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an expert in cybersecurity at the University of Copenhagen. "We need to be prepared for the possibility of hybrid attacks and take steps to prevent them." The Danish government has promised to increase security measures at airports and other sensitive locations to prevent similar incidents. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact national security policies and international cooperation on drone regulation. Background: Denmark's Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen has been at the forefront of efforts to address the issue of drone incursions over its airports. Poulsen has emphasized the need for improved security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Additional Perspectives: Drone expert and professor at the University of Aarhus, Dr. John Nielsen, noted that the use of drones to disrupt air traffic is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. "We need to consider not only the technical aspects but also the social and economic implications," he said. Current Status: The investigation into the drone incursions continues, with authorities working closely with international partners to address the issue. The Danish government has promised to increase security measures at airports and other sensitive locations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Next Developments: As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact national security policies and international cooperation on drone regulation. Experts warn that the increasing availability of drone technology could lead to more sophisticated and coordinated attacks on national infrastructure. *Reporting by Bbc.*