German Businesses Warn of Rising Hybrid Threats Including Cyberattacks and Drone Strikes

A recent survey of over 1,000 German companies exposes a growing anxiety over hybrid threats—complex attacks that blend physical sabotage, cyberattacks, and drone strikes targeting critical infrastructure and the economy. According to the survey conducted by Bitkom, 87% of companies consider a serious crisis caused by such hybrid attacks likely, with 18% deeming it highly likely. Only 5% regard the threat as unlikely.

The survey highlights that 75% of companies believe increasing geopolitical tensions, especially between Russia and NATO or the USA and Iran, are elevating the risk of both analog and digital attacks against Germany. However, confidence in national preparedness is low; only about one-third of firms feel that Germany is well-equipped to handle cyberattacks.

Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst pointed out that Germany endures numerous daily digital attacks, often linked to state intelligence efforts from Russia and China, compounded by physical threats against critical infrastructure. He emphasized the urgency for substantial strengthening of resilience across the economy, government, and society. Notably, Wintergerst called on tech companies and startups to contribute innovative defenses to counter these multifaceted hybrid attacks.

This mounting threat environment underscores a shift in how hybrid conflicts are conducted, with state actors combining traditional sabotage with cyber means to undermine key economic sectors, administration, and vital infrastructure. The pervasive sense of vulnerability among German businesses stresses the need for a coordinated approach enhancing technological, organizational, and societal resilience.

As Germany faces this complex security challenge, the path forward will require robust collaboration between public institutions, private sector stakeholders, and technology innovators to develop effective preventive and responsive measures. Without increased preparedness, the economic and social fabric of the country remains at risk from these evolving hybrid threats.