German authorities investigate explosive-laden drone found near Ukrainian aircraft

German law enforcement and security authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of a drone carrying explosives near a Ukrainian cargo aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Operations at the facility were briefly suspended overnight on August 5 after the unmanned aerial vehicle was detected close to a runway where a Ukrainian Antonov An-124 cargo plane was parked.

A NATO spokesperson confirmed that security personnel secured the drone near the aircraft, while local police handled the immediate response. Investigators examined a device attached to the drone, which reports indicate contained explosive material and a detonator that failed to function. Several incoming flights, including passenger and freight services, were diverted during the temporary closure. The incident comes amid heightened security concerns and elevated alert levels across German airports following multiple recent unauthorized drone sightings in restricted airspace.

Sources: Adevărul, Digi24, Economedia, Moldova1, Ziarul de Gardă