Berlin Plans for Anti-Drone Protective Shield
Berlin, March 19 – The city of Berlin is preparing to implement an extensive anti-drone protective shield, a measure proposed by the CDU to safeguard the capital from potential drone threats. This initiative comes amidst growing concerns over drone incidents, including recent disruptions at BER airport.
The proposed plan involves deploying a network of 62 radio sensors throughout the city, each designed to monitor a radius of five to ten kilometers. In the central Mitte district, seven camera sensors with a range of approximately 1.2 kilometers would be installed. These sensors would track and report drone activity to a centralized situation center, which the CDU suggests could be located in a building at the former Tempelhof Airport.
Addressing the Drone Threat
Drones, being versatile and inexpensive to produce, are increasingly recognized as potential security risks, as evidenced in global conflicts. The CDU’s plan seeks to proactively address these threats, ensuring the safety of Berlin’s residents and infrastructure.
A key question that remains is how to protect people and buildings from falling debris once a drone is intercepted. One potential solution being considered involves the use of interception drones equipped with nets.
Recent Incidents and Existing Measures
The urgency of this plan is underscored by recent events. Drones have been spotted at BER airport, causing flight interruptions. In response to these growing concerns, an anti-drone unit of the Federal Police was established in Ahrensfelde in December. Later that month, the federal police opened the joint drone defense center of the federal and state governments (GDAZ) on Schöneberger Ufer in Kreuzberg. This center facilitates information sharing and coordination among security authorities, the Federal Criminal Police Office, the Bundeswehr, and intelligence services.
Implementation and Budget
According to CDU faction leader Dirk Stettner, the protective shield could be installed within six months. The estimated budget for this project is €5 million. Stettner stated to B.Z., “We are working to make Berlin safer. And there is a technique that can do that. The coalition has already provided funds in the budget.”
This initiative represents a significant step in enhancing Berlin’s security infrastructure, aiming to create a safer environment for its citizens by mitigating the risks associated with unauthorized drone activity.
