A number of drones were spotted over and near RAF Lakenheath in England on Nov. 20, the Air Force told The War Zone in response to our query about the incident.
“The number of UAS fluctuated and they ranged in size/configuration,” a spokesperson for U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces in Africa (USAFE) told us “The UAS were actively monitored and installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.”
American F-15Es at RAF Lakenheath. Photo credits: John Fielding
There were unconfirmed reports that F-15E Strike Eagles were sent aloft to chase the drones and that flight operations at the base were affected. The Air Force did not immediately respond to those claims.
“To protect operational security, we do not discuss our specific force protection measures but retain the right to protect the installation,” USAFE told us. “We continue to monitor our airspace and are working with host-nation authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities, and assets.”
RAF Lakenheath houses an extremely important set of capabilities, most notably the U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s only fourth and fifth-generation fighter wing and home to F-35A & F-15E tactical jets.
Top Photo: F-15E fighter jets from the 492nd Squadron at RAF Lakenheath. Photo – US Air Force
Source: The War Zone