Calls for Investigation into Possible Russian Involvement in Drone Activity at UK Air Bases
Unidentified drones observed over key airbases raise concerns of foreign interference, prompting demands for an inquiry.
Former security minister Tom Tugendhat has urged for an 'urgent investigation' following reports suggesting a possible Russian connection to recent drone activity over U.S. airbases in England.
Multiple instances of unidentified drones were reported over three bases – RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk – last November, according to the United States Air Force (USAF).
In response to these sightings, the USAF deployed approximately 60 British troops to assist in the investigation.
Labour frontbencher Lord Coaker highlighted the legal ramifications at the time, indicating that those responsible for illegal airborne incursions could face sentences of up to 14 years under national security laws.
Recent findings, reported in an investigation, indicate the movements of three individuals allegedly connected to the Kremlin during the time of the drone sightings.
Reports suggest that two of these individuals were seasonal fruit pickers.
Tugendhat, who served as security minister during Liz Truss's Conservative government until last year's general election, expressed concerns regarding the potential for foreign interference, stating, 'Russian intelligence are trying to recruit criminals to carry out sabotage attacks across Europe.
This strongly suggests emboldened Kremlin activity here in our country.'
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence remarked, 'We will not be offering a running commentary on operational security matters; however, the public can rest assured that we take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites.'
Multiple instances of unidentified drones were reported over three bases – RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk – last November, according to the United States Air Force (USAF).
In response to these sightings, the USAF deployed approximately 60 British troops to assist in the investigation.
Labour frontbencher Lord Coaker highlighted the legal ramifications at the time, indicating that those responsible for illegal airborne incursions could face sentences of up to 14 years under national security laws.
Recent findings, reported in an investigation, indicate the movements of three individuals allegedly connected to the Kremlin during the time of the drone sightings.
Reports suggest that two of these individuals were seasonal fruit pickers.
Tugendhat, who served as security minister during Liz Truss's Conservative government until last year's general election, expressed concerns regarding the potential for foreign interference, stating, 'Russian intelligence are trying to recruit criminals to carry out sabotage attacks across Europe.
This strongly suggests emboldened Kremlin activity here in our country.'
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence remarked, 'We will not be offering a running commentary on operational security matters; however, the public can rest assured that we take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites.'
