German authorities are intensifying an investigation into a suspected drone attack targeting Leipzig/Halle Airport after investigators discovered a third drone and suspected military-grade explosives near the major cargo and logistics hub.
The latest discovery was made near the airport during investigations into an incident earlier this month. According to German media reports and Reuters, investigators found a third drone along with approximately 50 grams of suspected hexogen, a powerful military explosive. Authorities also reportedly discovered equipment that may have been used to control the drones, including an antenna and electronic components attached to a tree.
The investigation follows a serious security incident on August 4 and 5, when an explosives-equipped drone was discovered near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The device was defused, while the incident forced authorities to temporarily halt airport operations and divert several incoming flights.
Investigators are also examining whether another drone collided with a DHL cargo aircraft shortly after the airport was temporarily closed. The aircraft sustained minor damage but was able to land safely elsewhere.
The case has drawn particular attention because Leipzig/Halle Airport is one of Europe’s important cargo hubs and plays a role in military logistics for Germany and NATO. Ukrainian cargo carrier Antonov Airlines also operates from the airport, increasing the strategic sensitivity of the facility.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Tuesday that Germany increasingly finds itself targeted by hybrid attacks and warned that those responsible would face consequences. He also said the government expects to disclose further information about who it believes was behind the attempted attack soon.
German media reports citing security sources have raised suspicions of possible Russian intelligence involvement. However, Berlin has not formally accused Russia, and Moscow has denied involvement. The investigation therefore remains open, with authorities yet to publicly establish responsibility.
The incident adds to growing European concerns over drones, sabotage and other forms of hybrid warfare targeting airports, military infrastructure and strategic supply networks. For Germany, the Leipzig/Halle case could become an important test of its ability to protect critical infrastructure against increasingly sophisticated security threats.
