US Air Force spots unidentified drones over airbases in Britain

The United States Air Force (USAF) has reported spotting unidentified drones over three major airbases in the United Kingdom between November 20 and 22.

The drones, described as "small unmanned aerial systems" (UASs), were detected over RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

In a statement, the USAF confirmed that the drones’ size and configuration varied, but at this stage, it remains unclear whether the drones should be classified as hostile.

"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 20 and 22 November," a spokesperson for US air forces in Europe said. "The number of UASs fluctuated and they ranged in size [and] configuration."

The USAF spokesperson also noted that the drones were monitored closely, but assured that none of the incursions had impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.

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

While the USAF declined to comment on whether any defensive measures were employed, they emphasized their right to protect the installations.

"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."

In response, a British Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated that the UK takes such threats seriously and maintains strong security measures at defence sites, including counter-drone capabilities.

"We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites. This includes counter-drone security capabilities," the spokesperson said. However, the Ministry declined to provide further details about security procedures, stating, "We won’t comment further on security procedures."

The USAF and British authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and work together to ensure the safety and security of the airbases.

By Khagan Isayev