Published On: Sat, Nov 23rd, 2024
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Unidentified drones spotted over three RAF airbases in UK | UK | News


A number of unidentified drones have been spotted over three airbases in Britain.

The incidents saw “small unmanned aerial systems” spotted over RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell, in Norfolk.

The United States Air Force (USAF), which uses the bases, said the sightings were recorded between November 20 and 22 and it was unclear at this stage whether the drones were considered hostile.

It also declined to comment on whether any defence mechanisms were used, but said it retains “the right to protect” installations.

A spokesperson for US Air Forces in Europe said: “ We can confirm that small unmanned aerial systems (UASs) were spotted in the vicinity of and over RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell between Nov 20 and 22. The number of UASs fluctuated and they ranged in size/configuration.

“The UASs were actively monitored and installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.

“To protect operational security, we do not discuss our specific force protection measures but retain the right to protect the installation. We continue to monitor our airspace and are working with host-nation authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities and assets.”

A spokesperson for the British Ministry of Defence said: “We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites. This includes counter drone security capabilities.

“We won’t comment further on security procedures.”

There have been concerns over the security of the country this week due to Vladimir Putin‘s latest television address. On Thursday, the Russian President said Moscow could strike the military installations of any country whose weapons were used against Russia.

This caused concerns for Washington and London, after US President Joe Biden allowed Kyiv to use ATACMS on targets inside the Russian territory and following reports of British-made Storm Shadow missile being fired in Kursk.

During the address, Putin confirmed Russia had launched a hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile attack on a Ukrainian facility.

Moscow, he added, would “respond symmetrically” to any “escalation”.



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