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British soldiers are set to receive new powers allowing them to shoot down drones that pose a threat to military bases. These plans, to be announced by Defence Secretary John Healey, aim to give troops the ability to respond quickly and decisively to potential dangers. The move comes after reports of mystery drone sightings at four British airbases used by US forces last year, as well as disruptions to airspace in Europe in recent months.
The new powers, known as a “kinetic option,” will allow British troops or Ministry of Defence (MoD) police to shoot down drones that threaten military sites in the UK. Currently, soldiers are required to divert drones or disrupt their GPS signals using counter-drone equipment, with shooting down a drone only permitted in extreme circumstances. Incursions by drones were reported at RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, RAF Feltwell, and RAF Fairford in November last year, prompting a joint investigation with about 60 RAF personnel assisting the US Air Force.
The recent increase in drone activity across Europe, including sightings in several EU countries, has raised concerns among leaders. To address this, plans for a multi-layered “drone wall” to detect, track, and destroy Russian drones have received support from some EU member states. Incidents such as Russian drones crossing into Poland and MiG-31 jets entering Estonian airspace have added to tensions, with multiple European airports having to close due to unidentified drone sightings.
Denmark recently hosted a leaders’ summit to discuss the drone issue, following successive drone sightings and airport closures across the region. Despite denials from Russia regarding involvement in these incidents, the threat posed by drones remains a significant concern for military and civilian authorities alike. The response to these challenges will require coordinated efforts and innovative solutions to ensure the safety and security of airspace in Europe and beyond
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