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Unidentified Drones Disrupt Operations at RAF Lakenheath, Mildenhall, and Feltwell; US Air Force Suspends F-15 and F-35 Flights

Nov 24, 2024, 06:14 AM

The US Air Force has confirmed that a number of small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) were spotted over three US airbases in the United Kingdom between November 20 and 22, 2024. The bases affected were RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell, key military installations in Suffolk and Norfolk. RAF Lakenheath, located approximately 100 kilometers from London, houses the only wing of fourth- and fifth-generation fighters in Europe, including F-15E and F-35A aircraft, and is set to accommodate nuclear weapons storage facilities. The drones, varying in size and configuration, were actively tracked and monitored by base personnel. The incidents led to the suspension of some flight operations, including flights by F-15 and F-35 fighter jets, due to safety concerns. A spokesperson for the US Air Forces Europe confirmed the incidents, stating that there were multiple sightings over the three-day period. While there were unconfirmed reports that F-15E fighters were scrambled to intercept the drones, official sources have not confirmed these details. The US Air Force has not disclosed whether the drones were considered hostile or provided further information regarding their origin or intent. The incidents have raised security concerns regarding unauthorized drone activity over sensitive military sites. Investigations are underway to determine the nature of these drone incursions and to enhance measures to prevent future occurrences.