Introduction
Wind farms off the northern German coast are being required to install radar systems to enhance monitoring of ships and drones, according to the federal maritime authority. This decision comes amid heightened security concerns in European waters following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Context
German authorities have recently initiated customs proceedings after towing the Eventin vessel from German waters. The European Union suspects the tanker is part of a "shadow fleet" used by Russia to evade oil sanctions. Reports indicate that some vessels may have their navigation systems turned off, and disturbances have been noted in the Baltic Sea, with tankers falsifying their location data.
Developments
A spokesperson for Germany's federal maritime agency, the BSH, confirmed a report from Bild newspaper that offshore wind farms have been instructed to install radar systems. The 2025 standards, announced by the BSH in late January, require wind farm operators to equip suitable structures with advanced radar technology and provide the data collected to authorities.
"The data is primarily used to secure transport routes," BSH official Nico Nolte stated, adding that it is also sent to the federal maritime security center in Cuxhaven, which oversees the safety and security of Germany's coast.
Companies Involved
- Utilities EnBW
- Utilities RWE
Conclusion
Additionally, Germany is gearing up for increased spending in security and defense following a constitutional reform backed by parties looking to form the next government.