Taking photos with drones requires firms to obtain security clearance in Slovakia

The Defence Ministry fears companies could record secret activities.

The number of drones in Slovakia is estimated to be up to 30,000. The number of drones in Slovakia is estimated to be up to 30,000. (Source: Sme)

Dozens of firms that photograph and shoot videos using drones received an unexpected letter from the Defence Ministry at the end of last year.

The ministry is demanding that companies get their security clearance completed by June 1. As a result, several firms may be closing down.

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One of the companies that got the letter is Crot Production. They take pictures with drones for various clients.

The ministry's letter reads that the company must get, at least, confidential security.

"The law on classified information, based on which we should obtain clearance, has been valid for a long time, but an exception was made," said Richard Raymann, owner of Crot Production.

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Nothing has actually changed in the law; it has been valid in its current form for more than 15 years. Only the position of the Defence Ministry has changed.

In addition, Raymann pointed out that all the images which drones take are always approved by the ministry. As well, any company that wants to use a drone heavier than 20 kilograms, or wants to take drone photos and film, needs a permit from the Transport Authority (DÚ SR).

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