Most aviation industry experts in Germany say the country lacks sufficient laws to detect and counter drones, raising concerns about growing security threats, a survey seen by DPA showed.

The survey was conducted by the German Aerospace Industries Association and the European Unmanned Aviation Association.

Approximately 74 per cent of the 140 specialists from member companies active in drone operations, detection, and defense surveyed stated that current laws are insufficient to enable companies or police to effectively address drones.

Illegal drone flights increasingly threatened national security and economic stability, BDLI managing director Marie-Christine von Hahn said.

She added that Germany needed better coordination of drone defence so that the wide range of technologies developed by the industry could be deployed.

Two-thirds of the experts reported incidents involving illegal drones in their organisations, most of which occurred within the past six months.

The main threats cited were espionage targeting military facilities and critical infrastructure.

While drones could also serve as tools for protecting infrastructure, 72 per cent of respondents said their organisations did not use drone detection, mainly due to cost and risk concerns.

The available technologies were rated as only low to moderately effective.

Experts called for a national strategy for drone detection and defence.

About 72 per cent backed stronger regulation and legal frameworks, 63 per cent supported security solutions for critical infrastructure provided by authorities such as the police, and 59 per cent wanted guidance on preventive measures.

(dpa/NAN)