UK Military Authorized to Shoot Down Drones Near Bases
In a significant shift in military protocol, the UK has authorized its troops to shoot down drones threatening military sites. This decision was recently announced by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and aims to enhance security at key military installations across the country.
Details of the New Protocol
The introduction of a “kinetic option” allows British Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence (MoD) police to engage drones posing threats. Previously, soldiers were limited to diverting drones or disrupting their GPS signals using counter-drone technology. Shooting down a drone was only permitted in exceptional cases.
Drone Incursions at Strategic Airbases
Last November, several Royal Air Force bases, including RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell, and RAF Fairford, experienced reported drone incursions. In response, about 60 RAF personnel were deployed to assist the US Air Force in investigating these activities. Despite the heightened concern, officials have not identified those responsible for the incursions.
US Military Significance
These bases hold strategic importance for the US military. Recently, the US deployed F-22A fighter jets to RAF Lakenheath, shortly after a US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites in June. This increase in military activity underscores the critical nature of these airbases.
European Concerns Over Drone Activity
Concerns over drone activity extend beyond the UK. Recent sightings of drones in the European Union prompted a leaders’ summit in Denmark earlier this month. During this meeting, several EU member countries advocated for a “drone wall” to quickly detect, track, and neutralize hostile drones, particularly those from Russia.
- Twenty Russian drones entered Polish airspace in September.
- Russian MiG-31 jets violated Estonian airspace later that same month.
Russia has either denied or downplayed these incursions, contributing to tensions in the region. Additionally, reports of drones have resulted in temporary airport closures across Europe, including Munich, Germany, and regions in Denmark and Norway, causing significant disruptions to air travel.
Danish authorities have stated there is no evidence linking these activities to Moscow, which has consistently denied involvement in recent drone incidents. As the situation evolves, the implementation of stricter measures in UK airspace reflects ongoing concerns about security and surveillance.
