The increasing number of wind farms helps to partly implement the energy transition. This observation becomes particularly relevant when we see the rise in fossil fuel prices since the beginning of the Middle East war. Apart from debates on the aesthetics and the noise pollution of wind turbines, another element hinders their installation on a large scale. The blades of wind turbines disrupt radars, including those of the army.
In rotation, they create what is known as the Doppler effect, which is the change in frequency of waves when approaching. This can disturb radar systems, as reported by BFMTV. Additionally, their metallic structure reflects electromagnetic waves, creating a shadow zone, “invisible” to radars. Finally, wind turbines can also block their line of sight. To address this awkward situation in the era of multiplying global conflicts, several strategies are being adopted in Europe.
The United Kingdom is set to spend millions of pounds. In France, an authorization from the military is required to install a wind farm up to about 70 km from a military radar. Several construction projects have already been blocked for these reasons. The power of the army in the installation of wind farms was formalized by a decree in August 2025. However, this does not promote the development of green energy. Therefore, the United Kingdom has made a different choice. According to reports from The Telegraph, the British army will spend 95 million pounds (around 111 million Euros) to modernize its air defense system. New radar technologies are expected to be in place by 2029, according to the British Ministry of Defense and the Department of Energy Security and Carbon Neutrality.
