Drone Attacks Leave Denmark Exposed - and Searching for Response
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK (AP) — Drone attacks on critical infrastructure across western Denmark have exposed the country's defenses as vulnerable to attack, sparking a sense of embarrassment among officials.
The incidents, which began on Wednesday night, saw drones disrupt flights at Aalborg and Billund airports, while others were spotted near military bases in Esbjerg, Sonderborg, and Skrydstrup. The attacks also targeted Denmark's oil and gas platforms in the North Sea and the central port of Korsor.
"It's a wake-up call for us," said Defense Minister Morten Bodskov. "We need to take this seriously and review our defenses."
The drone incidents have raised concerns about Denmark's preparedness for hybrid warfare, a type of conflict that combines conventional military tactics with non-military means such as cyberattacks and drone strikes.
Denmark, a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance, has been criticized for its lack of investment in defense infrastructure. The country's reliance on NATO for collective defense has also been questioned.
"This is not just about Denmark," said Hans Christian Andersen, a security expert at the Danish Institute for International Studies. "This is about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure across Europe."
The drone attacks have also sparked concerns about the potential for more sophisticated cyberattacks and the need for greater investment in cybersecurity measures.
Denmark's government has promised to review its defense strategy and increase funding for military modernization.
As the investigation into the drone incidents continues, officials are working to prevent future attacks. Aalborg airport was briefly closed again on Thursday night following another suspected drone sighting.
The Danish authorities have vowed to take a tough stance against those responsible for the drone attacks, but the incident has left many wondering if Denmark's defenses can withstand such threats.
Background:
Denmark has been a member of NATO since 1949 and has contributed troops to several international missions. However, the country's defense budget has been criticized for being too low, with some estimates suggesting it is only about 1% of GDP.
The drone attacks come as Denmark prepares to take over the presidency of the European Union in 2023, a position that will require the country to play a more prominent role in EU security and defense policy.
Additional Perspectives:
Experts say the drone attacks highlight the need for greater cooperation between countries on cybersecurity and defense issues.
"This is not just about Denmark or Europe," said Anders Fogh Rasmussen, former NATO Secretary-General. "This is about the global threat of hybrid warfare."
The incident has also sparked debate about the role of drones in modern warfare and the need for greater regulation.
As Denmark searches for a response to the drone attacks, officials are facing questions about their preparedness for future threats.
Current Status:
The investigation into the drone incidents continues, with police working to identify those responsible. The Danish government has promised to review its defense strategy and increase funding for military modernization.
In the meantime, Denmark's critical infrastructure remains vulnerable to attack, leaving many wondering if the country is doing enough to protect itself against hybrid warfare threats.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
