Drones spotted over German Arrow 3 missile defense system before activation

Suspicious drones were detected flying over Germany's newly deployed Arrow 3 missile defense system in Holzdorf just days before its official inauguration. German forces attempted but failed to shoot down the drones, with military assessments suggesting likely espionage.
Suspicious drones were sighted over Germany's Arrow 3 missile defense system in Holzdorf just two days before its official activation on December 3, according to media reports. An internal military investigation noted three "unknown type" drones circling about 100 meters above the system's radar installation on December 1.
Failed Interception and Security Response
German forces authorized an attempt to shoot down the drones using a G27P assault rifle equipped with Israeli-made Smash X4 anti-drone optics, but the effort failed. The military has not speculated publicly on the origin of the drones, but an assessment indicated intentional espionage was likely, given the system's high sensitivity and value. The incident was reported to military police, counterintelligence, and local law enforcement. A spokesperson for the German Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed the overflight but declined to provide specifics for security reasons.
Strategic Significance of the Arrow 3 System
The Arrow 3, procured from Israel under a €3.6 billion defense agreement, is designed to intercept ballistic missiles at high altitudes, including intercontinental threats from Russia. Germany is the first country outside Israel and the US to deploy the system. The incident underscores growing security challenges as Europe strengthens its air defenses. Germany has also launched the European Sky Shield Initiative, joined by 23 nations, to develop a coordinated continental air defense network in response to increased aerial threats.
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