Europe Arms Critical Infrastructure Against Drone Threats

Counter-drone technology for utilities shall be common Europe Moves to Arm Critical Infrastructure Against Drones

2026-10-22 From Detlev Karg 1 min Reading Time

European governments are considering giving operators of critical infrastructure greater powers to defend their facilities against hostile drones. The move could open a rapidly expanding civilian market for counter-drone technology, while raising difficult questions about legal responsibility and public safety.

Across Europe, governments are increasingly considering allowing operators of critical civilian infrastructure to take responsibility for actively defending their facilities against hostile drones using military-grade counter-UAV technology.(Graphic: AI generated) — Across Europe, governments are increasingly considering allowing operators of critical civilian infrastructure to take responsibility for actively defending their facilities against hostile drones using military-grade counter-UAV technology.
(Graphic: AI generated)

According to Reuters, which interviewed more than 30 industry executives, officials and experts, the technology to detect and neutralise drones is developing faster than the legislation governing its use. Energy companies, airports and transport operators are increasingly concerned about attacks capable of disrupting essential services. France is among the frontrunners. Legislation passed in August allows authorised operators of critical infrastructure to deploy electronic jammers and interceptor systems at designated sites. The government aims to equip an expanded network of sensitive facilities by 2027. Poland has also authorised designated security units to neutralise drones entering restricted areas around energy infrastructure.

Germany examines new possibilities

Germany's Interior Ministry is reviewing how private operators and third parties could become legally involved in active drone defence. Austria has announced similar plans. However, uncertainty remains over who may authorise an interception and who would be liable if falling debris injured people or damaged property. The challenge is particularly acute for electricity networks. German energy group E.ON operates approximately 2,700 substations nationwide. Protecting every installation against airborne threats is considered unrealistic, making rapid detection and coordinated responses increasingly important.

Rheinmetall registers rising interest

For Europe's defence industry, the emerging market offers significant opportunities. Modern counter-drone solutions combine radar, electronic sensors, command-and-control software and effectors capable of disrupting or intercepting hostile aircraft. German defence group Rheinmetall told Reuters that demand from private infrastructure operators was rising sharply. The company is already conducting site assessments and workshops for potential customers. Yet the decisive obstacle may be regulatory rather than technological. Without clear rules governing the use of force, sophisticated detection systems risk identifying threats that operators are not authorised to stop.

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