At Leipzig/Halle Airport, where the incident involving the Ukrainian strategic cargo aircraft An-124 'Ruslan' occurred, the investigation has entered a decisive phase. German law enforcement authorities have discovered critical evidence that could directly link the attack to a network of sabotage groups operating in Europe. A key piece of the puzzle was a suspicious antenna found on a tree in the immediate vicinity of the aircraft's landing site.
The technical side of the attack: Antenna and signal amplification
Investigators from the BKA (Federal Criminal Police Office of Germany) determined that the antenna found on the tree was likely installed by criminals to amplify the control signal. Experts believe this device was necessary for the precise guidance of an explosive-laden drone towards the target. The use of an external antenna indicates that the operators sought to ensure a maximally powerful and unobstructed communication channel, minimizing the risk of losing control of the drone as it approached the airport.
According to sources close to the investigation, the drone found near the aircraft was a specially modified model. Additional batteries were integrated into its design, significantly increasing its flight range and endurance. The technical equipment used in the attack theoretically allowed for remote control of the aircraft via mobile networks from anywhere in the world; however, the presence of an antenna on-site suggests that the operators were in close proximity to the target or used a repeater to enhance the reliability of the attack.
DNA traces and the international network of saboteurs
In addition to technical evidence, forensic experts have obtained a significant volume of biological proof. DNA traces were discovered on a canister filled with explosives, as well as on the drone itself. The quality of the samples varies, but one finding has already sparked significant interest among investigators. A so-called "trace match" has been identified, which could link the current case to other investigations. Specifically, one of the genetic profiles found, according to preliminary data, points to Lithuania.
These findings allow law enforcement to hypothesize the involvement of an organized network in the Leipzig attack. The investigation suggests that the sabotage group may have acted according to a scenario rehearsed in previous incidents. Prosecutors are verifying the theory that the same structure responsible for previous shipments of explosive devices via airmail is behind this attack.
Connection to the 'disposable agents' case and the role of the GRU
The investigation draws parallels with a high-profile case from two years ago, when a network of recruited so-called "disposable agents" operated in Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. According to investigators, this network may have been controlled by the Russian military intelligence (GRU). At that time, packages containing explosives were ignited in the airports of Leipzig, Birmingham, and Warsaw. Currently, several individuals are already on trial in Poland and Lithuania for a series of similar attacks.
Investigators are paying special attention to the role of a young Ukrainian who, according to available data, was recruited to carry out attacks. It is known that he traveled to Germany, where he could have gathered items for the Russian intelligence service. The list of required components included drone parts, special mounts, and tin cans—exactly the elements found during the investigation of the Leipzig incident. This suggests that the logistical chain for preparing the attack was built on the same principles as in previous cases.
Contradictory data
Although the main version of the investigation points to a direct link with Russian intelligence and the network of "disposable agents," there are nuances in the interpretation of technical data. On the one hand, the presence of an antenna on a tree suggests that operators were in close proximity to the airport, requiring the physical presence of saboteurs in Germany. On the other hand, experts note that the equipment used theoretically allowed for remote control of the drone from anywhere in the world. This creates a discrepancy in versions: either a group of saboteurs operated on German territory using the antenna as a backup, or the antenna was installed in advance as part of an automated system, while control was exercised remotely. Furthermore, it has not yet been confirmed whether the DNA found from Lithuania is direct evidence of the participation of a specific individual previously convicted, or merely an indication of the network's general logistics.
