Between November 20 and 22, the United States Air Force (USAF) detected several small unidentified drones near three airbases in the United Kingdom: RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell. The USAF stated that these 'small unmanned aerial systems' were actively monitored, and officials determined that there was no impact on base residents or critical infrastructure.
RAF Lakenheath is home to the 48th Fighter Wing, crucial for the USAF's combat capabilities in Europe, while RAF Mildenhall hosts the 100th Air Refueling Wing. RAF Feltwell serves as a hub for housing and services.
The drone sightings coincided with Ukraine's recent strikes on Russian targets using intermediate-range missiles provided by the US and the UK, following authorization from President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In response, Russia launched a new intermediate-range ballistic missile at Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin asserting the right to target nations that permit the use of weapons against Russia.