Sweden has deployed anti-drone technology and radar systems to Denmark to help protect upcoming European summits after unexplained drone incursions disrupted air traffic and raised regional security fears. Danish authorities called the episodes a hybrid threat and imposed an immediate ban on civilian drones.

Drone Threats Prompt Urgent Response

In the past week, unidentified drones forced closures at six Danish airports, including Copenhagen, the busiest in the Nordic region. Officials described the incidents as deliberate attempts to destabilize the country ahead of high-level gatherings of European leaders. Analysts noted that such incursions reflect a broader pattern of low-cost hybrid tactics designed to undermine security confidence.

Sweden’s Deployment and Regional Backing

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson confirmed that Sweden sent “Counter-UAS” systems and additional radar units. Swedish police also dispatched reinforcements to Copenhagen, joined by Norwegian officers under cross-border cooperation. France contributed a Fennec helicopter with anti-drone teams, while Germany sent 40 soldiers equipped for air defense.

NATO and Wider Implications

NATO upgraded its Baltic Sea mission in response, sending a German frigate for airspace monitoring. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen suggested Russia was the most likely actor behind the drone incidents, though Moscow denied involvement. Security experts say the deployments show how rapidly Northern Europe is integrating defenses in response to non-traditional threats.