• Source: 2024 US air base drone incursions in the United Kingdom

    • Between November 20 and 26, 2024, a series of unauthorized drone activities was detected over and near four US Air Force bases in the United Kingdom: RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell, and RAF Fairford. These installations, located in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Gloucestershire, are critical to US military operations in Europe. The drone activity persisted for several days, raising concerns about the coordination and intent behind the incursions.


    Incidents


    During the incursions, multiple small unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) were observed entering restricted airspace. The drones varied in both number and type.
    The incursions prompted joint monitoring and countermeasures by US and UK military personnel. British troops were deployed to assist in tracking and identifying the drone operators, using counter-drone systems such as ORCUS. The incursions also led to disruptions in flight operations, with F-15E Strike Eagles scrambled from RAF Lakenheath to investigate.
    Authorities encountered difficulties in identifying the drone operators, raising concerns about potential espionage or hostile surveillance. The incursions heightened worries about the security of critical military infrastructure. Investigations are ongoing, and both the operators and their intentions remain unknown.


    Air bases affected


    All four bases are considered highly strategic and sensitive. RAF Mildenhall supports refuelling and special operations, while RAF Feltwell provides logistical support for US forces.
    RAF Lakenheath hosts the US Air Force's 48th Fighter Wing, operating F-15E Strike Eagles and F-35A Lightning II aircraft. RAF Lakenheath is also slated to house American nuclear weapons, adding to the sensitivity of the incursions.
    RAF Fairford hosts a Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady detachment from the 99th Reconnaissance Squadron and is the US Air Force’s only European airfield for heavy bombers. It routinely supports Bomber Task Force (BTF) operations.


    See also


    2024 New Jersey drone sightings
    List of unmanned aerial vehicle-related incidents


    References

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