Europe weighs giving utilities, infrastructure companies more powers to bring down drones
XLU•European governments are considering giving critical infrastructure operators more authority to counter drones, as concerns grow about attacks on power and other essential services. France passed a law in August allowing approved operators to detect, jam and shoot down drones near designated sites; Germany is reviewing how companies could be involved.
1. Powers under review
Utilities and other critical infrastructure operators across Europe are seeking stronger defences against drone attacks, while governments consider giving companies powers traditionally held by the military. France’s August law allows approved operators and contractors to detect, jam and shoot down drones near designated facilities. France aims to equip an expanded list of sensitive sites by 2027.
2. Different national approaches
Germany is reviewing how infrastructure operators and third parties could be legally involved in active counter-drone measures. Austria has announced plans to give similar powers to operators, while Poland has authorised designated security units to destroy, disable or take control of drones in restricted zones around critical energy infrastructure. Operators in Poland say more clarity is needed on who would be responsible for collateral damage.
3. Legal and operational hurdles
Utilities have generally focused on hardening networks and restoring services rather than stopping attacks. Finnish grid operator Fingrid chief executive Asta Sihvonen-Punkka said giving utilities counter-drone powers would be “a very, very big change” requiring careful legal consideration. Companies and technology firms say uncertainty over who can authorise a response is slowing investment in countermeasures.
