Cyberattack on German drone manufacturer Quantum Systems: Bundeswehr halts its fleet

Attackers not yet identified infiltrated the corporate network of Munich-based drone manufacturer Quantum Systems, which is among the suppliers of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), and planted malicious software in the update package of its mission planning software Qbase. Der Spiegel based the report on security sources.

After the attack, in order to prevent possible risks, the Bundeswehr temporarily halted the use of the drone fleet produced by Quantum Systems. The Qbase software plays a critical role in the flight planning of the Vector reconnaissance drone, which the German military also actively uses.

Quantum Systems confirmed that it detected a cybersecurity incident at the end of October 2024 and that initial investigations indicated it was an active attack carried out by hostile actors. The company stated that its information technology and security teams were working in cooperation with the competent authorities and that the threat had been brought under control.

Quantum Systems, which has long supplied drones to Ukraine, also has production facilities in that country and joint ventures with local manufacturers. No definitive information was shared on who was behind the attack; it was noted that the investigation is ongoing.