By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Approximately 60 British troops, including counter-drone specialists, have been deployed to three US Air Force bases in the UK following a series of unusual drone sightings. These deployments aim to protect the bases and identify the drone operators, amid concerns of a coordinated operation. Civilian and Ministry of Defence police are investigating the incidents, which involved multiple drones observed over several nights. While the drones haven’t been deemed hostile, the US Air Force and RAF continue to monitor airspace and maintain a robust security posture.
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British forces have been deployed following the repeated sighting of drones over three US air bases in the UK. This isn’t the first time such incidents have occurred, raising concerns about the increasing frequency and potential implications of these unauthorized intrusions. The drones, described as “small unmanned aerial systems” varying in size and configuration, are suspected to be similar to those used in recent conflicts, rather than larger, fixed-wing models. The possibility of these drones carrying small munitions is a serious consideration, highlighting the potential for escalating tensions.
The response to these drone incursions has prompted a discussion about appropriate countermeasures. The idea of using trained birds of prey, such as peregrine falcons, to intercept drones has been suggested, despite concerns about the potential harm to the birds. Existing counter-UAS (Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems) technologies, like those employed at many UK air bases, are also available, but their effectiveness in this specific scenario remains questionable.
The lack of a swift and decisive response from US forces during similar incidents at other US bases, such as the prolonged sightings over Langley Air Force Base, raises questions about the capabilities and preparedness of defense systems to deal with these persistent intrusions. The assertion that drones are easily identifiable and easily intercepted is countered by the argument that the technology involved is capable of operating at substantial distances from the operator, often remotely and beyond visual range (BLOS). The potential for small drones to evade detection and remain airborne for extended periods also undermines the presumption of quick capture.
The identification of these objects as drones themselves is being debated. Some suggest that these unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs), as they were once called, are not simply drones, pointing to the difficulties of intercepting and identifying small, fast-moving targets at night. The technological capabilities required to achieve such precision and prolonged surveillance are also noted. The complexities of detecting and neutralising the drones, particularly in residential areas, further adds to the challenges. The need to balance the security of military installations with the safety of civilian populations is a key concern.
The potential for these drones to carry out more than just observation is a serious concern. While some believe the drones are more likely for reconnaissance or even simple provocation, the possibility of them delivering small payloads cannot be ignored. The deployment of British forces, therefore, takes on a more critical role. However, the limited options available to them without escalating the situation are being widely debated. Jamming the drones is a possibility, as is attempting to track them to their point of origin after they land. But the question remains: what effective action can be taken beyond deploying forces in response to these continuing incursions?
The sheer proliferation of readily available drone technology and its ease of use are underscored by experiences such as a cruise ship’s in-house drone light show. This highlights how drone technology has become far more accessible and how readily this tech can be adapted for potentially hostile purposes. There is a distinct lack of preparedness in effectively countering this form of threat. The use of a wide array of technologies to detect, disable and ultimately, to track down these drones is clearly still in its infancy, leaving military installations vulnerable and significantly less safe than once might have been assumed.
The long-term implications of this drone activity require broader consideration, including the future of airbase security and potential implications for international relations. The uncertainty surrounding the origin and motives of these drones further compounds the situation. The debate surrounding whether these are simple acts of provocation or more coordinated and potentially hostile actions remains very much open, and this uncertainty necessitates a careful and measured, yet effective, response. The ongoing incidents at these US airbases in the UK illustrate that the era of unmanned aerial systems presents significant challenges to security and requires proactive and adaptable defense strategies to counter these threats.