A Friday incident near Volkel Air Base, where Dutch forces fired on drones, underscores ongoing concerns about drone incursions into European airspace and security near critical installations.

Eindhoven Airport temporarily halted flight operations, with the origin of the drones still unknown and no clear source identified.

EU defence ministers from ten countries agreed to develop a coordinated defensive response to drones, discussing a ‘drone wall’ and broader anti-drone measures.

Some officials attribute sightings to hybrid warfare linked to Russia, though Moscow denies involvement with past incursions.

Belgium is purchasing autonomous Blaze drones for detection and neutralization, alongside a Ukraine-Netherlands memorandum on joint drone production.

Germany’s cabinet is moving to empower the military to use force against drones in emergencies and to beef up police capabilities for drone defense.

Germany is set to bolster drone defense with armed forces if needed, following a cabinet-approved draft by the interior ministry.

Volkel Air Base houses Royal Netherlands Air Force units and a U.S. Air Force squadron, highlighting its strategic NATO role.

This incident fits a broader pattern of drone sightings and airspace incursions across multiple EU countries in recent months.

Similar drone activity has been reported in countries like Poland and across Germany, Belgium, and Denmark, with airspace closures and defense responses noted.

Unidentified drones have been reported over European airports and bases, prompting shutdowns of several hubs in Europe over the period.

Eindhoven is the Netherlands’ second-busiest airport after Schiphol, making the disruption particularly significant for travel and commerce.

Dutch defense ministry said drones were fired upon, but they evaded capture despite the attacks.

There has been no definitive statement on the drones’ origins, with officials saying the source remains unclear and no further details provided.

Authorities have not explained why the drones entered or remained in the restricted airspace.

Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans said investigations are underway and that measures could be taken, including flight diversions routes through neighboring airspaces such as Germany.

The report notes Ukraine and the Netherlands collaborating on drone production, referencing statements by President Zelenskyy from October this year.

Reporting is being coordinated by outlets including DIE ZEIT, Reuters, and dpa, with updates anticipated as events unfold.