Europe Weighs Letting Utilities Jam or Destroy Drones Near Sites

European governments are weighing expanded powers for energy and other critical-infrastructure operators to detect and counter drones, amid fears that attacks could disrupt electricity and heating for millions. France has passed a law allowing approved operators and contractors to detect, jam and intercept drones near designated facilities; Poland has authorized designated security units to disable or destroy drones in restricted areas, while Germany and Austria are considering or preparing similar measures. The push reflects concern that police and military forces cannot continuously protect every vulnerable site, and that counter-drone technology is advancing quickly. But approaches differ across countries, and unresolved questions include who can authorize an interception and who would be liable if a response injures someone or damages property.