The German army has banned the use of Chinese-made drones, including for training purposes, and will replace them with European alternatives, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defense on Wednesday.
The ministry stated that drones "made in China will no longer be used... The existing systems will be replaced with products from local sources or, where possible, European ones," citing the need to ensure data and IT security.
The magazine "Der Spiegel" was the first media outlet to report the decision, which was based on concerns that drones could transmit data on military activities, training locations, or weapon systems to Chinese intelligence services.
The ministry reported that the armed forces had been using "cheap and commercially available drones for training purposes," which were purchased "with the least amount of bureaucratic procedures." It added that "to enhance the autonomy and technological sovereignty of the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces), Chinese-made models will no longer be used for specific purposes or for training."
