The small flying drones will use infra-red technology to monitor Deutsche Bahn property. The stealthy aircraft – which can fly at a height of up to 150 metres – will gather videos & photos that could then be used against suspected vandals, as well as acting as a deterrent against future activity.

With the BBC reporting a cost of €60,000 or so per drone, the investment in the new technology is small change compared to the almost €8 million the national German rail service currently pay on existing anti-graffiti and removal measures.

However, the initiative is likely to be met with some hostility, despite the prevalence of railway vandalism. Privacy concerns are a serious issue in the country, and Germany’s proposed defence drone research - aka Euro Hawk - was halted recently following fierce opposition.

(Photo source)