Did Russia launch a squadron of drones at RAF Lakenheath last November?
It’s being claimed that a UK fighter pilot had to take evasive action to shake off the unidentified drones.
The near mid-air collision was only avoided as the pilot made a dramatic diving manoeuvre to avoid the drones.
Investigations suggest that the drones were being controlled by a tanker docked in Hull, allegedly part of a Russian shadow tanker fleet. Another vessel was also said to be involved.
This attack and others are one of the reasons why British military bases are being reinforced with counter-drone weapons.
The backdrop is increasing levels of Russian spying at high-security installations across Europe.
The UK has allocated some £750 million for short-range drone protection for homeland defence and deployed forces.
This was part of the UK’s long-awaited defence investment plan published last week.
The plan is to provide extra security to bases in the UK.
Similar incidents occurred two years ago after four US bases in Britain were targeted by drones. They were also being controlled by Russian shadow fleet operating near the UK.
Dan Jarvis, the new defence secretary, said: “This shows how seriously we’re taking the threats to our homeland and will see high-tech and low-cost equipment, such as the successful Skyhammer interceptor missile put into the hands of our personnel.”
