Tensions rise as drones linked to foreign powers spark security alerts in West

Federal regulations restrict the US military's ability to shoot down drones over military bases, permitting action only if they pose a direct threat.

Unidentified drones spotted flying over Langley Air Force Base in Virginia have left US military officials puzzled, unsure if the activity is linked to hostile entities or merely hobbyists. The restricted airspace over Langley was breached in December, a situation first reported by the War Zone website and subsequently communicated to President Joe Biden, raising concerns among military experts, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The drone flights continued for 17 days, occurring about an hour after sunset. The US Air Force acknowledged the breaches in a statement but downplayed the potential threat, noting that the number of uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) varied in size and configuration. "None of the incursions appeared to show hostile intent, but any unauthorized flight in our restricted airspace can pose a safety risk. The FAA was informed of the UAS activities."

The drone activity was observed by General Mark Kelly of the US Air Force, according to the Wall Street Journal. The drones flew at speeds of around 100 mph and altitudes of 3,000 to 4,000 feet, with witnesses describing the noise as resembling a parade of lawnmowers. This incursion led to two weeks of meetings at the White House, involving Pentagon officials, staff from the UFO office, and the FBI. Under federal law, the military can only shoot down drones over military bases if they pose a direct threat. 

Even if drones are suspected of spying—an illegal act—it doesn't automatically justify bringing them down, prompting some members of Congress to call for enhanced authority in this area. In February of last year, a security alert was triggered when the US Air Force shot down a suspected surveillance balloon from China. Experts at the time speculated that the balloon, which passed over a significant US missile silo, was more of a show of strength than an actual attempt to gather intelligence. Concerns about drone usage are not new in the West. 

Two years ago, Norway dispatched warships and fighter jets to patrol offshore oil platforms after drones, believed to be Russian, were spotted in the vicinity. Last month, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced an expansion of the Replicator program, which focuses on developing attack drones for potential use against China. 

These drones will also be employed to defend US bases both domestically and overseas, particularly against explosive-laden drones from Iran-linked groups that have caused the deaths of several American soldiers in the Middle East.

By Naila Huseynova