Germany names main suspects in drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport
German security authorities have with a high degree of probability identified two main suspects in the August drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany: a Belarusian citizen and a Russian citizen linked to Russia’s GRU — an aggressor state. Politico Europe reported this, citing confidential investigation materials reviewed by Welt and German security officials.
On the evening of August 4, a drone carrying explosives was discovered near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft at the airport and was neutralized. Investigators also found the wreckage of two more drones nearby. According to German security authorities, the target of the attack was the aircraft, which had been filled with approximately 25,000 liters of aviation fuel.
Investigators’ version
German investigators believe that the Russian suspect, likely linked to Russian military intelligence, was responsible for planning and logistics for the attack. According to a senior German security official, he arrived in Germany from Turkey at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, later flew to Serbia and is now in Russia.
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The Belarusian citizen entered the Schengen Area through Latvia on July 28. Law enforcement officers believe he was the operative involved in the sabotage. According to the investigation, the Russian citizen arranged the explosives and directed the actions of the Belarusian suspect.
Explosives and coordination
Investigators indicate that a total of about 1.8 kilograms of Semtex was intended for use in the three drones — around 600 grams for each device. The explosion did not occur because the detonator became disconnected. In surveillance camera footage obtained by Welt, the drone is lying next to the aircraft; according to law enforcement, the explosives were hidden in a tin can.
The day after the attempted attack, police found an antenna structure taped to a tree near the airport, which was likely used to control the drones. DNA previously recorded in Finland and Lithuania was found on the remains of a glove. German security authorities are coordinating the investigation with Lithuania, Poland, Latvia and Finland and are in contact with the US FBI. Russia denied involvement in the attack.
