Drone Incursion at Mourmelon-le-Grand
The Mourmelon-le-Grand military base in the Marne department of northeastern France was overflown by several unidentified drones during the night of Sunday, September 21, to Monday, September 22, 2025. The incident, initially reported by local newspaper L'Union, was later confirmed by the departmental military delegation in Marne (DMD) on September 25, 2025. Military officials described the event as 'exceptional' and stated that the devices were 'small' and 'not military-operated drones'.
Base Significance and Official Response
The Mourmelon-le-Grand base is a significant military installation, spanning over 10,000 hectares. It is home to the 501st tank regiment and has played a crucial role in international defense efforts, notably by hosting Ukrainian soldiers for training as part of the 'Champagne' task force throughout 2024. The base also houses the Tactical Drone Training Center. Following the unauthorized overflights, security measures at the facility were immediately reinforced, and a report was filed with the local gendarmerie. An investigation into the origin and intent of the drones is currently underway. The French Ministry of Defense has indicated that there is currently 'no evidence to suggest foreign state involvement' in the drone activity.
Legal Framework and Broader European Context
French law strictly prohibits civilian drones from flying over military installations, classifying such unauthorized flights as threats to national security, punishable by significant fines or imprisonment. The incident at Mourmelon-le-Grand is not isolated, occurring amidst a broader pattern of unauthorized drone incursions across Europe over the past month. Similar incidents have been reported over sensitive civilian and military sites in various countries, including Denmark, Norway, Poland, and the Baltic states. These intrusions have led to disruptions such as temporary airport closures and heightened air patrols. NATO officials are reportedly investigating the possibility that these disruptions could be part of 'hybrid attack' operations, potentially orchestrated by Russia, designed to test European defense responsiveness. In response to these growing concerns, EU member states are coordinating discussions, with a proposed 'drone wall' being considered to enhance the security of critical infrastructure and military installations across the continent.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, French military authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding the drones' origin, flight patterns, or the duration of their presence over the base. The focus remains on understanding the nature of the incursion and ensuring the continued security of the strategic military site.
5 Comments
Kyle Broflovski
Protecting our military bases, especially one training Ukrainian soldiers, is paramount. Great job responding swiftly.
Stan Marsh
Reinforcing security is a necessary first step, yet the broader issue of drone defense over vast military sites remains a complex challenge. A 'drone wall' sounds promising, but its feasibility and cost need careful evaluation.
Eric Cartman
A 'drone wall' might sound extreme, but clearly, new measures are needed. National security first!
Bermudez
The concern about hybrid attacks is valid given the European context, but officials must be transparent about the evidence before jumping to conclusions about state actors. Overreacting could escalate tensions.
Africa
Good to see security reinforced immediately! This is a serious threat.