British forces step in to defend US airbases after spate of drone sightings

Around 60 British troops, including counter-drone specialists, have been deployed to help defend three US Air Force bases in the UK following a series of unusual drone sightings.

The military personnel are tasked with protecting the airfields and investigating the origins of the unmanned aerial vehicles, amid concerns that the drone activity may be part of a coordinated operation, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The affected bases include RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk. These bases, which host US military aircraft, have been the site of multiple drone sightings, with the most recent reported overnight. Civilian police, along with Ministry of Defence police, have launched an investigation into the mysterious incidents.

"It seems awfully coordinated," a defence source said, referencing the drones spotted over the weekend and Monday night. The activity is considered highly unusual, with one second defence source describing it as "odd. Very weird."

A spokesperson for the US Air Forces in Europe confirmed that a number of drones were seen during nighttime hours on Monday.

"The number fluctuated and varied between the bases over the night," the spokesperson said. However, they noted that the drones were not considered hostile. "Since November 20 there has been no impact to residents or infrastructure and [they] have not been identified as hostile. However, they are still continuously being monitored to ensure the safety and security of the installations."

In response, the Ministry of Defence has deployed approximately 60 military personnel, including members of the RAF Regiment's Force Protection Wing. These specialists are trained in countering drone threats and are equipped with the ORCUS counter-uncrewed air system, capable of detecting, tracking, identifying, and, if necessary, defeating hostile drones. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the situation: "We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites. We are supporting the US Air Force response."

Despite the ongoing monitoring of the airspace by both US and RAF units, the origins and purpose of the drones remain unknown.

"I can confirm the situation is ongoing and our units continue to monitor the airspace and are working with host-nation authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities, and assets," the US Air Forces in Europe spokesperson added. "To safeguard operational security, we do not discuss specific force protection measures, however we retain the right to protect our installations."

The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover who is responsible for operating the drones, while military units remain vigilant in safeguarding the bases.

By Khagan Isayev