Multiple Occurrences of Small Drones: Air Force Bases in Ohio, Utah, and Germany Report Visuals
Heads Up: Drones Invading Military Territory
Seems like those little flying devices, drones, have been popping up everywhere - Air Force bases in Utah, Ohio, Germany, and even France - and causing quite a stir!
At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, drones were spotted on the 13th, 14th, 16th, and 17th of December. The size, configuration, and number of these drones varied, but thankfully there were no effects on the base residents or assets. Airspace around the base was temporarily closed on the 13th because of these unwanted visitors. The 88th Air Base Wing assured they're keeping a close eye on things, working with local authorities to ensure the safety of everyone on the base.
Reports in Utah at Hill Air Force Base had similar results, though it's unclear whether the drones actually invaded the airspace above the base. Ramstein Air Base in Germany also experienced drone sightings in early December, and just like Wright-Patterson, no impacts were reported on the base.
German media first reported the drone encounters at Ramstein last week. The authorities collaborate with local partners to patrol the airspace, ensuring residents' and installations' safety.
Just a few days ago, a Chinese citizen was arrested for flying a drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and taking photographs of the base. Authorities caught the guy at San Francisco International Airport before he hopped on a plane to China.
In the UK, a few weeks ago, similar incidents were reported around four bases - RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell, and RAF Fairford. The authorities are still investigating those instances.
Although officials' language is consistent in describing the drone incursions, stating that "the number of systems has fluctuated, and they have ranged in sizes and configurations," they're yet to disclose details on who might be controlling these drones or their actions taken against them.
Recent incidents might be due to the widespread availability of cheap, commercial drones, raising concerns about espionage or disrupting activities during peace time or war. This updates the Air Force's strategy for securing its bases in preparation for competition with countries like China. They've also embraced the idea of agile combat employment, deploying teams of airmen to remote locations and moving quickly, thereby making targeting harder for adversaries. In order for this to work, the Air Force needs more airbase defense than the Army can currently provide. The two services are currently discussing the issue.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops!
- The Pentagon is grappling with an increase in drone sightings, including at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.
- Air Force bases in various locations such as Germany, France, and even the United Kingdom have reported similar incidents.
- The rise in drone encounters has prompted authorities to temporarily close airspace and collaborate with local partners for enhanced airspace patrol and security.
- The military is concerned about espionage or disruptions, especially with the widespread availability of commercial drones.
- Officials are still investigating the identities of those controlling the drones and the actions taken against them.
- This development could potentially influence the Air Force's strategy for base security, particularly in competition with countries like China.
- The Air Force is advocating for more airbase defense than the Army can currently provide in order to implement agile combat employment effectively.
- The recent drone invasions highlight the pressing need for the Army and Air Force to collaborate on addressing drone threats in military territories, as reported in general-news and sports media.
