European energy companies could be granted the right to shoot down drones

Several European countries are granting or considering granting critical infrastructure operators the right to detect, jam, and shoot down drones, amid fears that attacks or incursions could affect energy networks and leave millions of people without electricity. The measures are being examined in the context of intensified hybrid attacks following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

France adopted a law in August allowing operators and certain authorized service providers to use anti-drone systems near designated facilities. Paris wants critical infrastructure to be protected by 2027 and is testing jamming equipment and interceptor drones in Brétigny-sur-Orge.

Poland has already authorized security units working for operators to destroy, neutralize, or take control of drones in restricted areas around energy infrastructure. Germany is examining the legal involvement of companies, while Austria intends to grant similar powers to operators, including those in the energy sector.

The main obstacle remains legal liability. Shooting down a drone can cause casualties or damage on the ground, and companies are afraid to intervene without clear rules on decision-making authority and the consequences of an erroneous action. At the same time, operators are investing in sensors, automated systems, and plans for restoring networks after possible attacks.