Denmark is considering new legislation that would allow airports, seaports, and other critical infrastructure to take more aggressive action against unauthorized drones. Under the proposed law,

operators of these facilities could be granted the authority to disable or even shoot down drones that pose a potential threat to safety or disrupt operations.

The move comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of drones in sensitive areas. Drones have become increasingly popular for recreational, commercial, and industrial purposes, but their misuse near airports or other secure locations has raised alarms about safety, espionage, and even terrorism. Authorities argue that current laws and response protocols are not sufficient to deal with fast-moving drone threats, particularly when immediate action is needed to protect people or infrastructure.

Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen emphasized that the new law aims to ensure rapid and decisive action in the event of an incident. “We have seen examples from other countries where drone activity has disrupted air traffic, leading to serious delays and potential dangers. This proposal is about giving the right people the authority to act quickly and effectively,” he said.

If passed, the law would allow the use of jamming equipment or direct interception methods, including firearms or specialized drone capture systems, depending on the situation. Strict conditions would be attached to the use of force, and only trained personnel would be authorized to take such actions. The government also noted that safeguards will be in place to prevent abuse and to ensure the safety of people in the surrounding area.

Security experts have welcomed the proposal, calling it a necessary step in an era where drone technology is cheap, accessible, and increasingly used in ways that can endanger public safety. However, some civil liberties groups have raised concerns about accountability and potential risks to bystanders.

The draft law will now go through a period of public consultation and parliamentary debate before a final vote is held. If approved, Denmark would join a growing list of countries taking a more assertive stance on drone regulation, reflecting the challenges posed by rapidly evolving aerial technology. Photo by Dornum72, Wikimedia commons.