Unidentified drones continue to hover over US military bases in UK Concerns over “sinister plot” growing

Unidentified drones have been spotted flying near US military airbases in the UK, as authorities intensify efforts to identify those responsible.

A spokesperson for US Air Forces in Europe confirmed that small drones are still being observed, with a fourth base now targeted, Caliber.Az reports via UK media.

Concerns are growing that these incursions could be part of a more significant and potentially “sinister” plot.

Ministers warned on November 27 that those behind the recent drone activity over bases in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Gloucestershire would face severe legal consequences. In response to the ongoing drone sightings, about 60 British soldiers were deployed to US airbases on November 26. They are assisting in safeguarding American personnel and operating a counter-drone system designed to detect, track, and neutralize unmanned aerial systems. The drones spotted vary in size and design, and the coordinated flights suggest they are not the work of hobbyists.

A U.S. Air Force spokesperson stated that “small unmanned aerial systems continue to be spotted in the vicinity of and over RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Fairford, and RAF Feltwell since November 20.” The US has reiterated its right to defend its airbases, though specific protection measures remain undisclosed. "To safeguard operational security, we do not discuss specific protection measures. However, we retain the right to protect our installations," the spokesperson added.

Defense Minister Maria Eagle assured the public that steps are being taken to address the issue. “The protection of our personnel and bases is, of course, our highest priority,” she said during a debate in Westminster Hall on UK air and missile defences. She emphasized that anyone caught engaging in these unlawful activities would face the full force of the law.

Investigators are working to determine whether the drones pose a hostile threat or are the result of amateur activity. Former Pentagon official Mark Cancian explained that determining the intent behind the drone flights is challenging. “Hostile intent would likely focus on the most sensitive areas of the bases, but many amateurs would want to snoop there also,” he said.

Cancian suggested that the drones may not have been shot down yet due to safety concerns. “If a drone is endangering people or aircraft on the base, then base personnel would take action. However, those actions are often taking place in heavily populated areas. What goes up must come down, and if base personnel start shooting at drones, it could easily result in collateral damage,” he explained.

While it’s possible that adversaries like Russia could be behind the drone incursions, Cancian speculated that the flights might instead be the work of an "amateur snooper." 

By Tamilla Hasanova