Government warns of legal action for drone incursions over US airbases

The government has issued a warning that individuals responsible for recent drone incursions above US airbases will be “shown the full force of the law.” Defence Minister Maria Eagle stated that measures were being implemented following the detection of unidentified unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the vicinity of three sites in Suffolk and Norfolk. An investigation by the US Air Force (USAF) is being supported by the deployment of sixty RAF personnel. Additionally, it has come to light that a fourth US airbase has been subjected to similar targeting. “Protection of our personnel and bases is of course our highest priority,” Eagle commented during a debate at Westminster Hall concerning UK air and missile defences. She added, “For security reasons I won’t go into specifics. But we are taking steps and we are aware of what’s going on and doing our best to deal with it.” Multiple sightings of UAVs occurred over RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk from Saturday to Monday, as well as over RAF Feltwell in adjacent Norfolk. A spokesperson further confirmed that RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire had also encountered drone incursions. Earlier this month, four B-52 Stratofortress bombers arrived at RAF Fairford. Members of Parliament were informed that the Civil Aviation Authority had established flight restriction zones surrounding these installations. Ms Eagle further stated, “We will be making sure that anybody we manage to catch for engaging in this behaviour will be shown the full force of the law for their illegal activities.” A spokesman for the US Air Forces in Europe indicated that airspace was being monitored, adding: “We retain the right to protect our installations.” On Tuesday, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson affirmed: “We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites.” RAF Lakenheath hosts the USAF’s 48th Fighter Wing, equipped with F-35As from the Joint Strike Fighter programme and F-15E Strike Eagles. The 100th Air Refueling Wing, which operates KC-135 mid-air refuelling aircraft, is based at RAF Mildenhall. Feltwell accommodates personnel from the 48th Fighter Wing and functions as a logistical center. Earlier this year, the BBC reported that Lakenheath was undergoing preparations to potentially accommodate US nuclear bombs, following their removal from the UK in 2008.