Danish opposition parties demand evidence in drone controversy ahead of election

Danish opposition leaders are pressing the government to release concrete evidence about last autumn’s alleged drone incidents before the upcoming election, DR reports.

In September 2024, national police, the domestic security agency PET, the military, and the intelligence service held joint press conferences describing “hybrid attacks” involving drones over Denmark, including near Copenhagen Airport. Authorities launched investigations, and the defence ministry initiated an evaluation of the events.

However, the release of that evaluation has been delayed without explanation. On Tuesday, DR revealed that the military had confirmed firing shots into the air at Borris firing range during a drone incident and that defence pilots temporarily refused to fly over their own facilities.

Inger Støjberg, leader of the Denmark Democrats, called the situation unacceptable. “There is maximum uncertainty about whether there were even drones in Denmark, and if so, what kind,” she said. “The government cannot be allowed to hide in this case.”

The Copenhagen Police, responsible for investigating the airport incident, have not completed their inquiry and declined to share preliminary findings. Earlier reports by DR indicated that several initial drone sightings were later dismissed as unlawful activity.

Midt- og Vestjyllands Police, which probed the shooting incident, have finished their investigation but are awaiting input from other districts before issuing a joint statement.

Alex Vanopslagh, leader of the Liberal Alliance, demanded transparency before the election. “Present the evidence now—whether there were drones or not. If there were, Danes can handle that information. If there weren’t, that’s relevant too, because it speaks to Mette Frederiksen’s tendency to overreact.”

Støjberg suggested the delay raised suspicions. “If there’s someone quick to act, it’s Mette Frederiksen. When there’s a hint of danger, she’s fast to hold dramatic press conferences. It’s strange that now, when we ask for scrutiny, things suddenly can’t be ready.”

Christian Rabjerg Madsen, political spokesperson for the ruling Social Democrats, dismissed the criticism as “pathetically desperate,” stating that updates had been provided when new information emerged. A final report is being prepared under the defence minister’s authority.

The defence ministry has not confirmed whether police were briefed on the evaluation’s contents or timeline. Requests for comment from Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen went unanswered by deadline.