The German logistics industry is facing a new threat: unconventional incendiary devices sent via freight service providers pose a serious danger.

In recent months, there have been two incidents in which inconspicuous packages were lost during transport and branding. DHL, the world’s largest logistics provider, has tightened security measures across Europe in response to these incidents. The investigation also suspects a possible connection to Russian sabotage, which further increases concerns.

The security situation in the European logistics industry is tense. DHL, the world’s largest logistics company, was forced to take comprehensive measures following the incidents. According to a DHL spokeswoman, the focus of security efforts is on the network, employees, and customers’ facilities and shipments. The aim is to minimize risks and prevent possible further incidents.

In July 2024, a mark was found in a freight container at the DHL hub in Leipzig. According to information from security circles, an incendiary device was found in a package that had been sent from the Baltic States. These packages are packed and set on fire in the packed container, in some cases and shipments known to be. Fortunately, the mark was quickly extinguished, so that major damage was avoided. Nevertheless, the incident was considered a serious warning and extensive security investigations were carried out.

Lufthansa Cargo, Germany’s largest air freight shipper, has also tightened security measures. However, this is not the case with incendiary devices, as the same level of vigilance is required. A spokeswoman for the company stressed that the transport of air freight is generally subject to strict security requirements that are continuously monitored. In order not to jeopardize the ongoing investigations, no further details were given.

Possible background: Russian sabotage?

Security circles have not ruled out a connection between the unconventional incendiary devices and Russian sabotage. Geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West have increased in recent years, and there are numerous reports of Russian cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. Acts of sabotage in the logistics sector could represent a new dimension of this hybrid warfare, in which two infrastructures are deliberately disrupted.

The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) and the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) have sent corresponding security notices to aviation and logistics companies. They warn of possible further attacks and urge companies to review their security measures and strengthen them if necessary. The threat posed by unconventional incendiary devices, which are difficult to detect and therefore particularly dangerous, represents a serious challenge for the security authorities and the logistics industry.

Impact on the logistics industry

The incidents have sparked a debate in the logistics industry about the security of freight transport. The focus is on how such threats can be effectively fended off in the future. DHL and Lufthansa Cargo emphasize that they are working closely with the authorities to further increase security standards and prepare for possible new threats. The incident in Leipzig has shown how vulnerable the complex logistics chains that support our globalized economy are.

Logistics companies are expected to review their security strategies over the next few months and potentially adopt new technologies to better detect and neutralize potential threats. However, increasing security measures could also lead to longer delivery times and higher costs, which could ultimately impact the entire industry.

The threat of unconventional incendiary devices sent via freight service providers has fundamentally changed the security situation in the European logistics industry. DHL and Lufthansa Cargo have responded to the recent incidents by tightening security measures, while the German security authorities are intensifying their investigations. It is still unclear whether Russian sabotage is actually behind the incidents, but the threat is being taken seriously. For the logistics industry, this is a wake-up call to rethink security standards and prepare for new challenges.