British and American authorities are investigating reports of drones flying over four U.S. airbases in the UK in recent days. According to Voice of America correspondent Henry Ridgwell, the UK has deployed 60 military personnel around these bases amid concerns that the drones could be used to disrupt operations or carry out acts of sabotage.
The U.S. military reported on Wednesday that small drones have been observed regularly flying over the bases since November 20. Among the locations affected is Lakenheath Airbase, home to the 48th Fighter Wing of the U.S. Air Force, one of the most significant combat units in Europe.
The Pentagon stated this week that it is treating these incidents with utmost seriousness. Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, assured that no operations or facilities have been impacted so far.
To bolster security, the UK has deployed approximately 60 soldiers to protect the bases, employing what Defense Minister Maria Eagle described as “multi-layered defensive measures.” She emphasized that any individuals caught in connection with these incidents would face the full extent of the law.
The U.S. military noted that the drones observed have varied in size and design, which security expert David Dunn believes could indicate deliberate actions. According to Dunn, such incidents could potentially disrupt air operations or serve other purposes, such as gathering intelligence on the location and number of fighter jets. Drones have also been seen near housing facilities for U.S. military personnel, raising additional security concerns.
“The most vulnerable part of the system is the aircrew,” Dunn explained. “If their living quarters are identified, it could be exploited to target the most critical part of the chain.”
The Times of London reported that authorities have not ruled out Russian involvement. Dunn suggested there is evidence that Moscow is increasing hybrid warfare activities — non-military tactics designed to cause disruption. Examples include undersea cable sabotage, incendiary packages, and the burning of warehouses containing supplies bound for Ukraine. Such acts, Dunn claimed, are often carried out by criminal groups linked to Russia.
The Russian Embassy in London did not respond to Voice of America’s requests for comment. Moscow has previously denied involvement in hybrid attacks against Western countries.
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