Germany records high level of russian espionage and sabotage
According to the 2024 annual report by the German Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD), there has been a significant rise in attempts to obtain data on the Bundeswehr’s personnel, weapon systems, command structures, and troop deployment decisions. russia is identified in the report as one of the main threats.
MAD head Martina Rosenberg emphasized that modern espionage should be viewed as preparation for potential military conflicts. She noted that in 2025 there has been a sharp increase in russian intelligence attempts targeting military facilities, sabotage along supply lines, cyberattacks, disinformation operations, and the use of UAVs resistant to electronic warfare measures. The number of detected incidents nearly doubled over the year.
In addition to external threats, MAD also reports rising domestic extremism: in 2024, 524 new cases were opened, 413 of which involved right-wing radical activity within the army. This creates additional risks for Germany’s defense security amid russia’s aggressive actions and attempts to influence German society and the military.
The Center previously reported that russia uses satellites over Germany as part of its hybrid warfare against Europe.
