Unidentified drones have been spotted at UK airbases, raising security concerns. The government has warned that those responsible will face the full force of the law. An investigation is underway to identify the perpetrators, with suspicion falling on a state actor. Residents near RAF Mildenhall have reported seeing brightly lit aerial vehicles hovering above their houses and over the base itself.
Government Warns of Consequences for Those Responsible
The government has warned that those behind the drone incursions will be shown the “full force of the law”. Defence minister Lord Coaker told the House of Lords: “It is illegal for drones to be flown or within the vicinity of these military sites and people should be aware of that.”
US Air Force Takes Measures to Safeguard Installations
The US Air Force in Europe has stated that installation leaders have determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents, facilities or assets. The Air Force is taking all appropriate measures to safeguard the aforementioned installations and their residents.
Investigation Underway
A live criminal investigation into the incidents is underway. Defence sources have told the BBC that suspicion had fallen on a “state actor” being responsible for the incursions. However, neither the US nor UK authorities would be drawn on who might be responsible.
Airspace around US airbases in Norfolk and Suffolk has been under scrutiny following multiple recent drone incidents. Those responsible for the aircraft have yet to be found and nearby residents have questioned how and why the incidents have been allowed to happen.
Incidents Reported at Three US Airbases
Drone incursions were initially reported at three US airbases – RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk – between 20 and 22 November. The aircraft has since reappeared.
Residents Describe Sightings of Brightly Lit Aerial Vehicles
In the village of Beck Row, Suffolk, which is situated next to RAF Mildenhall, residents reported brightly lit aerial vehicles hovering above their houses and over the base itself. Casseem Campell, 28, said he had seen objects above his house in Beck Row.
Increased Military Activity and Police Presence
Chrystal Mason, 28, who lives in Beck Row, described an orange ball in the sky at night and increased activity at the US airbase. She also reported seeing military jeeps around the village and a higher police presence than usual – both military and UK police.
Incidents and Investigations
Investigations and Response
A live criminal investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the drone incursions. Defence sources have told the BBC that suspicion has fallen on a “state actor” being responsible for the incidents. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is working closely with US visiting forces, Home Office police forces, and other partners to respond to recent events.
Counter-Drone Capabilities
The MoD has stated that it takes any safety issue seriously and maintains robust measures at its sites, including counter-drone capabilities. The US Air Force in Europe has also confirmed that installation leaders have determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents, facilities, or assets.
Public Concerns and Reactions
Residents living near RAF Mildenhall have reported seeing brightly lit aerial vehicles hovering above their houses and over the airbase itself. Some have questioned why more was not being done to tackle the drones and expressed concerns about safety and security.
Government Response
The government has stated that those behind the drone incursions will be shown the “full force of the law”. Defence minister Lord Coaker told Parliament that it is illegal for drones to be flown or within the vicinity of military sites, and people should be aware of this.
