The German military has banned Chinese-made drones from use, including for training purposes, and is replacing them with European models, the defense ministry said.
The ministry cited data protection and information security concerns, stating that Chinese-made systems would no longer be used and that existing equipment would be phased out in favor of products from domestic or, where applicable, European sources.
Der Spiegel first reported on the decision, citing concerns that the drones could transmit data on military exercises, training grounds, or weapons systems to Chinese intelligence services.
The ministry said the Bundeswehr had previously used inexpensive, off-the-shelf drones for training, acquiring them with minimal bureaucratic effort.
“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’s statement said.
