Russia is actively deploying a network of spy antennas in the Austrian capital. This was reported by Financial Times. The equipment could be used to intercept NATO and EU communications.
Growing number of antennas in Vienna
Over the past two years, more satellite dishes and suspicious devices have appeared on the roofs of Russian facilities in Vienna. These are buildings that are used for electronic intelligence, as they were during the Cold War.
Among the facilities is the Russkiy Gorod complex, which includes several buildings, a school and a UN mission. The roofs of these buildings are literally covered with antennas of various types.
- Antennas are used to intercept government and military communications.
- Before the Munich conference, one of the antennas was deliberately reconfigured.
- After the event, the equipment was returned to its original position.
Other Russian facilities in the Austrian capital
In addition to the Russian City, equipment for possible surveillance was found at other Russian facilities in Vienna. These include a cultural centre and a former sanatorium.
There are also satellite dishes and devices on the roofs of these buildings that can be used to collect information. All these facilities are located in the central part of the city.
- The Russian facilities are located next to Austrian government buildings and international organisations.
- The network can cover key diplomatic and military negotiations.
Context.
Vienna is traditionally considered a centre of international diplomacy and intelligence. The city is the headquarters of many UN organisations and other international bodies.
Russia has a significant diplomatic presence in Vienna, which allows it to use official buildings for intelligence activities. Austrian authorities have not yet commented on the situation officially.
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