Multiple U.S. military air bases in the United Kingdom have experienced a series of drone incursions over the past week, triggering heightened security concerns among officials. Four bases, known to house advanced fighter jets like the F-15 Strike Eagle and F-35, have been targeted by these small, unidentified drones since November 20th.

The affected bases include RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell in eastern England, and RAF Fairford in the southwest. The coordinated nature of these incursions has alarmed military officials, who believe this may be a deliberate attempt to probe the security measures at these strategic locations. Approximately 60 U.K. military personnel have been deployed to bolster security at the targeted bases.

A senior U.S. official indicated that the drones appear to be more sophisticated than commercially available models, ruling out the possibility of hobbyist involvement. Witnesses have described them as small quadcopters and octocopters. While Pentagon Press Secretary, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, assured that the drones haven't disrupted base operations or posed a threat to personnel or assets, he emphasized the U.S.'s right to self-defense.

While the origin of the drones remains undisclosed, the timing of these events is noteworthy. The incursions began shortly after Ukraine utilized U.S.-supplied long-range ATACMs against Russia, a move following President Biden's decision to lift restrictions on such weaponry. Subsequently, Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted Russia's right to retaliate against countries providing weapons used against them.

Both the U.K. Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Air Forces in Europe have confirmed their ongoing investigation into these incidents. They are collaborating with local law enforcement to determine the purpose of the drone activity and whether a foreign government is implicated. This incident follows a similar occurrence last December, where unidentified drones were observed near Langley Air Force Base in Virginia for an extended period.

The targeted bases play crucial roles in U.S. Air Force operations. Lakenheath houses the 48th Fighter Wing, a cornerstone of U.S. combat capabilities in Europe. Mildenhall is home to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, while Feltwell provides essential support services. Fairford hosts the 501st Combat Support Wing Headquarters and the 420th Air Base Squadron.