Germany plans new security partnership with Israel

Germany is preparing two projects with Israel to protect critical infrastructure from rising cyberattacks, sabotage attempts and illegal drone activity, according to reports in the German media.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt wants to establish units capable of countering drones and create a sabotage-prevention shield. The Interior Ministry’s plan is expected to be discussed by the Cabinet in the coming days.

The proposed shield would function in part like a “Cyber Dome.” It would use a digital network of sensors to detect cyberattacks at an early stage and actively block them. The system, planned with Israeli cooperation, would use artificial intelligence and connect with the networks of government bodies, critical infrastructure operators and security agencies.

The system would analyze activity in real time, warn of security vulnerabilities and alert personnel to unusual movements. Under the national cyber-protection shield, AI-based technology and biometric facial recognition would also be introduced at sensitive locations such as train stations, with the aim of identifying potential saboteurs and people whose behavior draws suspicion at an early stage.

Germany also plans tougher measures against illegal drone flights after an explosive-laden drone was found in the cargo area of Leipzig Airport on August 4. Units would be stationed in Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Leipzig, Hannover and Cologne. They would protect airports, train stations and Berlin’s government district, and would be equipped to disable drone bombs and destroy explosive devices.