Denmark has reported a “hybrid attack” after unauthorized drones were sighted at several airports, leading to the closure of Aalborg airport. This follows a recent temporary shutdown of Copenhagen airport amid concerns that Russia may be testing NATO defenses.
Danish police confirmed drone sightings at Aalborg and three other smaller airports but only Aalborg, used for commercial and military flights, was closed. Officials described the incident as a coordinated operation involving multiple drones, signaling a professionally mounted hybrid attack.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated, “There can be no doubt this is the work of a professional actor given the systematic operation at multiple locations simultaneously.” However, Denmark does not currently consider itself under direct military threat and has not decided whether to invoke NATO Article 4, which would trigger alliance consultations.
Denmark Declares on Hybrid Attack
Recent drone and aircraft incidents in Estonia, Poland, and Romania have also raised accusations that Russia is probing NATO air defenses. In response, US President Donald Trump suggested NATO countries shoot down Russian aircraft violating their airspace, a position echoed by the European Commission president.
Multiple drones were seen near Aalborg airport in Jutland, Denmark’s fourth-largest city, mirroring the pattern that temporarily halted flights at Copenhagen airport earlier in the week. The closure impacted Denmark’s military operations, as Aalborg serves as a military base.
Police are investigating the drones’ origin and purpose, noting sightings also near airports in Esbjerg, Sonderborg, and Skrydstrup the latter being home to Denmark’s F-16 and F-35 fighter jets. The Danish armed forces are assisting the investigation but have offered no further comments.
