UAV security risks prompt stricter drone regulations and no-fly zone warnings

Authorities in Vietnam and internationally are issuing warnings regarding the security risks posed by unauthorized Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drones. In Vietnam, the Ministry of National Defence has established official no-fly and restricted zones, which include all airport boundaries and a radius of 5 to 15 kilometers around runways, as well as government buildings and defense sites.

Vietnamese regulations require drone owners to register their devices and obtain specific flight permits. Operators must be at least 18 years old for most devices, and those operating equipment over 2kg or flying beyond visual line of sight must hold professional certifications. Recent statistics in Vietnam show dozens of unauthorized drone incursions at airports in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Globally, drone incursions have evolved from simple regulatory violations to significant national security concerns. Incidents at airports such as Gatwick, Heathrow, and Munich have caused massive flight delays and passenger disruptions. A notable escalation occurred in August 2026 at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany, where a UAV equipped with explosives was discovered, highlighting the potential for drones to be used as weapons.