Most Germans concerned after explosive drone found at Leipzig airport

Nearly two-thirds of Germans are concerned about the discovery of an explosives-carrying drone at Leipzig airport earlier this month, according to a new survey.

The YouGov poll, commissioned by dpa, found that 63% of respondents were worried about the incident, while 22% said they were only slightly concerned and 9% not concerned at all.

A drone fitted with explosives and a detonation mechanism was discovered on the evening of August 4 in the security zone of Leipzig/Halle Airport, between Ukrainian cargo aircraft. 

Germany's federal prosecutor has taken over the investigation, describing the incident as a "serious attack on transport and logistics infrastructure in Germany."

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt later said Leipzig was "not an isolated case" but part of a broader pattern.

There is suspicion that Russia may have been behind the incident, but responsibility has not been established.

The survey also found widespread doubts about Germany's ability to defend airports and other critical infrastructure against hostile drones.

Four in five respondents said the country was poorly prepared, including 30% who described it as "very poorly" prepared. Only 11% believed Germany was well prepared.

The government has taken steps to strengthen drone defences, including establishing a dedicated federal police unit, expanding research into new counter-drone technology and creating a joint drone defence centre involving federal and state authorities.

YouGov surveyed 2,091 eligible voters between August 14 and August 17.