German Military Bans Chinese-Made Drones in Training
Germany’s Defense Ministry said on November 11 that its military has banned Chinese-made drones from training and is replacing them with European models over data and information technology security concerns. The military is also increasing domestic drone purchases. The ministry has not explicitly confirmed reports of restrictions on Chinese-brand vehicles entering military barracks.
Germany’s Defense Ministry said on November 11 that the military had banned the use of Chinese-made drones in training and was replacing them with European-made models. The ministry cited the need to protect data and information technology security.
File photo of a drone.（VietVance）
Germany’s Der Spiegel magazine reported that, citing security concerns, the military has also restricted vehicles made by Chinese companies such as BYD, Geely and NIO from entering barracks and other military facilities. The Defense Ministry confirmed that some vehicle models are barred from high-security military areas but did not say whether Chinese-brand models are on the list.
The German military is increasing its purchases of drones from domestic manufacturers, including Rheinmetall and Helsing. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said in 2025 that Germany planned to invest €10 billion in the technology over the coming years, equivalent to approximately $11.1 billion according to the original report.
At the same time, drones have become a security risk in Europe. In recent years, drones have been spotted over sensitive sites in several countries, including airports, military bases and industrial facilities.
Source: VietVance
