‘Not Just Hobbyists’: Former UFO Expert Links Foreign Powers to RAF Base Drone Activity
In a concerning development for military security, unidentified drones were detected hovering over three US Air Force bases in East Anglia, England, during November 2023. The suspicious activity occurred between November 20-22 at RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell, coinciding with preparations for potential nuclear weapons deployment at RAF Lakenheath, reports The Guardian.
Expert Analysis Points to Multiple Possibilities
Nick Pope, a former Ministry of Defence UFO investigator, suggests these drone incursions could be linked to foreign intelligence gathering. “Adversaries (probably Russia or China) might use drones to gather data on this, in parallel with using other intelligence-gathering strategies,” Pope explained. However, he believes direct involvement of foreign intelligence officers is unlikely, suggesting instead that third parties might be involved.
Historical Context of Nuclear Site Surveillance
The recent drone sightings aren’t isolated incidents. The region has a history of unusual aerial phenomena near military installations, most notably the 1980 Rendlesham Forest incident. What sets these current events apart is their timing, occurring as RAF Lakenheath prepares for what US Department of Defense documents describe as an “upcoming nuclear mission.”
Criminal Investigation Underway
While international espionage remains a possibility, authorities are treating these incidents as potential criminal activities. Lord Coaker’s parliamentary statement confirms that investigations are focused on prosecuting those responsible. The security breach has prompted renewed attention to counter-drone measures at military installations.
Ministry of Defence Response
The MoD maintains a strong stance on base security, with a spokesperson stating: “We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites. This includes counter-drone security capabilities.” However, specific details about these security procedures remain classified.
DroneXL’s Take
From a data security perspective, these incidents highlight the growing challenges military installations face in the age of accessible Drone Technology. While some might view this as a setback for the Drone Industry, it actually underscores the importance of developing more sophisticated drone technology for both defensive and counter-drone capabilities. The presence of unauthorized drones near sensitive military sites demonstrates the urgent need for advanced detection and mitigation systems.
What do you think about these drone sightings? Are they cause for serious concern, or simply the work of irresponsible hobbyists? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.
Discover more from DroneXL.co
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
Proposed legislation threatens your ability to use drones for fun, work, and safety. The Drone Advocacy Alliance is fighting to ensure your voice is heard in these critical policy discussions.Join us and tell your elected officials to protect your right to fly.
Get your Part 107 Certificate
Pass the Part 107 test and take to the skies with the Pilot Institute. We have helped thousands of people become airplane and commercial drone pilots. Our courses are designed by industry experts to help you pass FAA tests and achieve your dreams.
Copyright © DroneXL.co 2025. All rights reserved. The content, images, and intellectual property on this website are protected by copyright law. Reproduction or distribution of any material without prior written permission from DroneXL.co is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact us first. DroneXL.co is a proud partner of the Drone Advocacy Alliance. Be sure to check out DroneXL's sister site, EVXL.co, for all the latest news on electric vehicles.
FTC: DroneXL.co is an Amazon Associate and uses affiliate links that can generate income from qualifying purchases. We do not sell, share, rent out, or spam your email.