France is evaluating the security of its essential infrastructure and companies following a drone incident at a German airport earlier this month. Celine Berthon, director of the DGSI, France's domestic counter-intelligence agency, stated on Wednesday that the discovery of an explosive-laden drone in Leipzig indicates a need to prepare for direct actions against French territory.
The security warning follows an August 4 event at Leipzig/Halle airport, a logistics hub used by NATO. German officials reported finding a drone near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft that was being used for military supplies. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Tuesday that the government would soon identify those responsible for the attempted attack, while Moscow has denied involvement.
Addressing a forum organized by the business lobby Medef, Berthon described an increase in hybrid threats, including cyber penetration and violence involving local proxies. She noted that these threats target the defense, technology, energy, and communications sectors. General Fabien Mandon, head of France's armed forces, also stated at the forum that France is lagging behind adversaries in the development of low-cost drones and necessary defenses against large-scale drone deployments.
For the French public and industrial workers, this shift suggests potential changes in workplace security protocols and government spending priorities. Intelligence officials warned that hybrid warfare tactics could also be directed at scientific and institutional targets. Specifically, Berthon noted that such interference could be used to disrupt the smooth functioning of elections. This is particularly relevant as France is scheduled to hold a presidential election next year.
The immediate impact for French companies involves a debate on how to protect vital interests against non-traditional threats. Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier stated that the defense industry is prepared to meet re-armament needs, though the timeline for new defensive deployments was not specified. Following the German investigation's conclusion, French authorities may issue updated security directives for domestic airports and cargo hubs. The Berlin government is expected to release its findings on the Leipzig incident in the near future.