Unidentified drones seen over British airbases says US Air Force

Background

The US Air Force bases, RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, are located in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire respectively. RAF Feltwell is also located in the area and is primarily used for logistics and housing military personnel.

Incident Details

According to a statement from the US Air Force, 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. The number of UASs fluctuated and they ranged in size and configuration. The UASs were actively monitored, and installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.

Response

The US Air Force has stated that it continues to monitor its airspace and is working with host-nation authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities, and assets. The British Ministry of Defence, which owns the bases, has also stated that it takes threats seriously and maintains robust measures at defence sites.

Quotes

• “We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites.” – A spokesperson for the British Ministry of Defence

• “The UASs were actively monitored and installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.” – The US Air Force

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Related Internet Links

• USAF: RAF Lakenheath

• USAF: RAF Mildenhall

• Mildenhall Royal Air Force Base

• Lakenheath Royal Air Force Base

• Feltwell

• US Armed Forces