The German military has prohibited the use of Chinese-manufactured drones and is moving to replace them with European alternatives, the country's defense ministry announced on Wednesday.
The ministry stated that the armed forces would no longer deploy the devices, including for training exercises, pointing to data and information technology security requirements.
Under the directive, “Chinese-made models will no longer be used ... and existing systems will be replaced by products from domestic or, where applicable, European sources,” the defense ministry said.
The Bundeswehr had previously utilized “inexpensive, off-the-shelf drones for training purposes,” procuring the equipment with minimal bureaucratic procedures.
“To strengthen the Bundeswehr’s self-sufficiency and technological sovereignty, Chinese-made models will no longer be used for target or training purposes,” the ministry stated. The decision followed concerns that the devices could transmit sensitive information regarding military exercises, training grounds, or weapons systems to Chinese intelligence services.
