The events of recent weeks have shown that the Federal Republic of Germany urgently needs a national strategy for drone detection and defense. Above all, this is necessary in order to finally establish clear responsibilities, sustainable financing, and a reliable legal framework for effectively combating illegal drone flights. And last but not least, it is also necessary in order to enable the widespread commercial use of unmanned systems.
But how can illegally operated drones be effectively detected and defended against in everyday business? Experts from UAV DACH – Association for Unmanned Aviation have addressed this question in a joint working group with the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI). Recommendations for action by policymakers were developed and presented today in Berlin at a parliamentary breakfast (photo) attended by numerous representatives from politics, business, and associations.
Unresolved issues of jurisdiction and financing remain a key problem. “Responsibilities between the federal government, the states, the police, and the armed forces are currently too fragmented,” explains Dr. Gerald Wissel, CEO of UAV DACH. “However, drones do not stop at state borders. We need a nationwide airspace situation picture that is accessible to all responsible authorities, works in an internationally networked manner, and enables clear procedures for quick decisions.”
In the picture (from left to right): Dr. Gerald Wissel (CEO of UAV DACH), Marie-Christine von Hahn (Managing Director of BDLI), Dr. Konstantin von Notz (Deputy Chairman of the Green Party faction in the German Bundestag), Konstantin Knoll (Head of the “Defense & Security” department at BDLI)
More on this topic: Following the parliamentary breakfast in Berlin, the public was also informed about the recommendations for effective detection and defense against illegally operated drones in a press release (German language):