Signals of potential Russian sabotage preceding the Geilenkirchen alarm incident
The NATO Air Force base in Geilenkirchen, close to Aachen, temporarily implemented its second-highest alert level last Friday, prompted by intelligence suggesting a potential Russian sabotage operation. Sources within German security circles cited intelligence that indicated preparatory activities for a probable Russian sabotage attempt against the NATO base utilizing a drone.
Previously, the base had operated under this heightened security level for approximately 24 hours due to a potential threat. Upon discovering no unfavorable incidents, security measures were subsequently lowered back to Level Bravo+ on Friday afternoon. This move was taken to lessen potential danger among personnel, as clarified by a base spokesperson.
Consequently, all non-essential staff were ordered to depart the premises as a result of the intelligence warning. Notwithstanding, regular flight operations continued unhindered. The second-highest security level, Charlie, in NATO-speak, signifies that an incident has occurred or there is indication of an impending terrorist action against the alliance.
Elevated alert due to terror concerns
Geilenkirchen is home to specialized aircraft, primarily employed for airspace surveillance in the eastern NATO area. These aircraft can locate and distinguish other aircraft up to a distance of more than 400 kilometers thanks to their mushroom-shaped radar antennas. A base spokesperson confirmed that approximately 1600 individuals work on the NATO airbase.
In July, reports emerged of heightened alert levels in response to terror threats at US military installations in Germany and other European nations. According to CNN, citing two unnamed government sources, the Pentagon had elevated the second-highest security level, Charlie, at these installations. The specifics of the supposed threat remained undisclosed.
Last week, neither the NATO headquarters in Brussels nor the airbase provided any comment regarding the potential threat they may have faced. A base spokesperson dismissed rumors of drone flyovers as "absurd." "Not a single drone has come into contact with our grounds," he declared.
Suspected sabotage incidents in other German bases
Recently, investigations into suspected sabotage incidents have been underway at various German military bases. Following comprehensive examinations, all-clear notices were issued. Police and state security probed a security situation at the waterworks of the Cologne-Wahn Air Force barracks due to allegations that the drinking water may have been polluted.
Additionally, unidentified observations were made in Geilenkirchen. According to sources within the security community, a person in the vicinity of the airport was temporarily apprehended for questioning, but the accusations levied against them were never substantiated.
The European Union, being a close partner of NATO, expressed its concern over the escalating security situation at the NATO Air Force base in Geilenkirchen. Due to the repeated instances of heightened alert levels, the European Union urged NATO to enhance its overall security measures across its bases in Europe.
