Germany plans billions in investment for drone defense

Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced a substantial investment plan to enhance the Bundeswehr's drone defense capabilities, earmarking approximately 16 billion euros by 2030. This strategic move addresses the growing role of drones in contemporary military conflicts.

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We are launching an action plan drone in these days.

Pistorius revealed the launch of an "action plan drone," encompassing a wide array of measures to bolster national defense. The plan involves procuring a comprehensive spectrum of drones, including those for reconnaissance, tactical engagement, and crucially, for actively countering and neutralizing enemy drones. The minister emphasized a strategic and targeted approach to acquisition and training to ensure rapid and effective deployment.

During a visit to the "Friesland" object protection regiment, Pistorius observed the operational capabilities of a drone jamming system. This regiment houses a rapid reaction element (SRE) dedicated to drone defense, which has already proven its effectiveness in operations and exercises. The plan is for all branches of the Bundeswehr to be equipped with similar drone units by July.

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And that means that we want to invest approximately 16 billion euros in this area by the end of the decade.

These specialized units, comprising over 1,500 personnel, are tasked with protecting military installations and critical infrastructure from various threats, including drone attacks. Their arsenal includes mobile detection systems and jammers that disrupt drone communications. Additionally, the regiment utilizes "net thrower" drones capable of capturing or disabling aerial threats.

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We are procuring drones that reconnoiter, we are procuring drones that engage, as well as drones that can defend against attacking drones – thus the entire spectrum.

General Carsten Breuer, the Bundeswehr's Inspector General, highlighted that drone technology and defense represent a new dimension in warfare. He stressed the importance of accelerating testing and deployment of countermeasures to maintain a technological edge and ensure the protection of military assets and personnel.

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It is important to procure 'the right thing' quickly and effectively and to practice with it in the troop.