Between November 20 and 26, 2024, unauthorized drones were detected over four U.S. Air Force bases in the United Kingdom: RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell, and RAF Fairford. Located in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Gloucestershire, these bases play a vital role in U.S. military operations across Europe.
Details of the Incursions:
Observation:
Multiple small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were reported entering restricted airspace over the bases. The incidents involved varying numbers and types of drones.
Response:
The drones were monitored in real-time, and mitigation measures were put in place. The Ministry of Defence Police, along with local authorities and U.S. forces, launched an investigation into the incursions.
Security Measures:
British troops were deployed to assist in identifying the drone operators, leveraging counter-drone systems like ORCUS. The incursions also caused disruptions to flight operations, prompting F-15E Strike Eagles to scramble from RAF Lakenheath to investigate.
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