Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Detected Frequently Flying Over US Air Force Installations in the United Kingdom
Drones Causing Stir at US Air Forces Bases in the UK
The skies above US Air Forces (USAF) bases in the UK have become buzzing battlefields, with tiny, mysterious drones making numerous appearances. Last weekend, USAFE reported that these stealthy unmanned aircraft had been spotted at RAF Fairford, where four B-52 bombers are currently deployed as part of Bomber Task Force 25-1.
The small drones were first observed operating around and over RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltworth on Nov. 25. Varying numbers of the drones, in different sizes and configurations, were active from Nov. 20-24. The identities of the drone owners and operators, as well as their intentions, continue to elude authorities.
On Nov. 26, USAFE issued a statement, acknowledging that "small unmanned aerial systems continue to be spotted" at the bases. They stressed that none of these incursions had affected base residents, facilities, or assets.
Parliament has begun discussing air and missile defenses, with MP Nick Timothy, who represents the areas surrounding Lakenheath and Mildenhall, voicing concern about nighttime fighter scrambles in response to intercept these drones. Timothy's comments confirm media reports that Lakenheath had scrambled fighters, highlighting the tricky balance commanders must strike when it comes to civilian safety regulations.
USAFE is yet to reveal the defensive measures employed, but they've emphasized their right to protect installations. The control of UK airspace lies with the Civil Aviation Authority, similar to how the Federal Aviation Administration manages U.S. airspace. This means military operators have limited options when dealing with drone incursions, especially given the proximity of many bases to densely populated areas.
Approximately 60 British troops, some with counter-drone expertise, are being deployed in response to the situation. Reports suggest that this response follows similar incidents at US military bases, notably Joint Base Langley-Eustis, where the Air Force's F-22 Raptors are based. Despite this, a year later, the perpetrators behind these drone incursions continue to remain unidentified according to the Wall Street Journal.
It should be noted that these "mystery drones" have sparked concern due to their frequency and potential threat to base security. While their owners and operations remain hidden, various reports have suggested that the drones could be operated by hobbyists, activists, or possibly even hostile state or non-state actors. The lack of clear responsibility makes attributing ownership a challenging task.
To combat this growing threat, the US Air Force has been developing strategies to defend against drones and drone swarms for several years, particularly focusing on methods that don't involve using high-end missiles. The military is also increasingly interested in taking a larger role in airbase defense, an area typically managed by the Army.
In an effort to prepare for these challenges, base personnel participate in regular exercises involving simulated drone attacks, such as those executed by the 100th Security Forces Squadron at RAF Mildenhall. These drills help test the ability to identify, track, and neutralize unmanned aerial threats as part of broader combat readiness inspections. Ongoing efforts also focus on improving detection systems and developing counter-drone technologies while considering options for base hardening, such as constructing reinforced shelters for aircraft.
Overall, the mystery surrounding the drones and their operators persists, but US and NATO forces are working in close partnership to address this evolving threat. As the use of commercial drones continues to surge across the globe, the US is being urged to prioritize the development of more effective drone defense systems.
- The US Air Forces (USAF) bases in the UK have become a battlefield for small drones, with the mysterious aircraft causing a stir.
- The drones were first spotted at RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltworth, and their operators remain unknown.
- The Pentagon is yet to reveal the defensive measures employed, but they've emphasized their right to protect installations.
- Parliament has begun discussions on air and missile defenses, with concerns about the drones' potential threat to base security.
- To combat this growing threat, the US Air Force has been developing strategies to defend against drones and drone swarms.
- The military is also increasingly interested in taking a larger role in airbase defense, an area typically managed by the Army.
- The use of commercial drones continues to surge globally, urging the US to prioritize the development of more effective drone defense systems.
