The western Austrian airspace has been increasingly monitored by the Austrian Armed Forces since Monday. The background is that the World Economic Forum, which is attended by around 50 heads of state and government and around 2.700 delegates, is taking place in Switzerland. Traditionally, the Confederation and Austria work together in security areas during this event.
Under the operation name "Dädalus" the army monitors the airspace in western Austria. For example, additional aircraft, helicopters and mobile radar systems are used in the federal states of Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Additional air patrolling is also carried out. According to the responsible commander, this should ensure safety in Austria and Switzerland.
The WEF, which takes place in Davos, lasts until January 21, 2023. For this reason, a flight restriction area was also imposed over the state of Tyrol. According to official information, the army deploys around 1.000 soldiers, nine helicopters, 20 aircraft and eleven airplanes. The aeronautical equipment is to be used mainly from Innsbruck and Landeck. Four Pilatus PC-7s and three PC-6s are to be deployed from the first airport. Four Bell OH-58 helicopters are available from Landeck. If necessary, Eurofighters will be deployed from Zeltweg.
Some time ago, Austria and Switzerland signed a new agreement that includes extensive cooperation in the area of airspace security against non-military threats. This came into force on February 1, 2019. They had previously worked closely together during the annual WEF. Suspicious aircraft may be pursued across borders, but the use of weapons in the other sovereign area without prior approval is prohibited.