### U.S. Air Force Detects Small Drones Near Bases in Eastern England

LONDON — Unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, were spotted around several American-operated bases in eastern England last week, as confirmed by the U.S. Air Force. The drones appeared between Wednesday and Friday near RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell, prompting increased vigilance and monitoring from the U.S. Air Forces Europe.

According to an official statement, the Air Force closely observed the drones' activities in and over the three bases. While the origin of these drones remains unidentified, it was determined that their presence did not impact local residents or critical infrastructure.

RAF Lakenheath hosts the 48th Fighter Wing, considered a cornerstone of American aerial combat capabilities in Europe. RAF Mildenhall is home to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, an essential unit for mid-air refueling operations. RAF Feltwell serves a more domestic role, providing housing, schools, and other services for military personnel.

The Air Force emphasized its commitment to maintaining security measures but refrained from detailing specific force protection tactics. "To protect operational security, we do not discuss our specific force protection measures but retain the right to protect the installation," the statement read. The U.S. military is collaborating with British authorities to ensure the safety of its personnel and facilities.

The timing of these drone sightings coincides with heightened tensions related to the conflict in Ukraine, where significant escalations occurred last week. Ukraine employed intermediate-range missiles from the U.S. and Britain to strike targets within Russia, following authorizations from President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Russia retaliated by launching a ballistic missile towards Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin asserting the right to target countries supplying Ukraine with weaponry.

Located in the counties of Suffolk and Norfolk, RAF Lakenheath, Mildenhall, and Feltwell serve critical roles for both the Royal Air Force and the U.S. Air Force. The British Ministry of Defense affirmed the seriousness with which they treat potential threats, pointing to robust counter-drone security measures in place across military installations.

"We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at military installations," a Ministry of Defense spokesperson stated, without providing further details on the specific security protocols.