Russia's Shadow Fleet Conducts Drone Surveillance on European Nuclear Sites

• •Russia's drone campaign targeted 144 incidents across 13 European countries over 18 months.
• •Drones launched from shadow fleet vessels operated with impunity, exposing NATO air defense gaps.
• •Key targets included RAF Lakenheath and nuclear sites in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

A recent report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) reveals that Russia conducted a coordinated drone surveillance campaign targeting nuclear sites across Europe, including the UK, from August 2024 to February 2026. Drones were launched from Russian shadow fleet vessels, notably the HAV Dolphin, which was tracked near Hull during incidents over sensitive military bases. The campaign involved 144 documented incidents across 13 countries, with significant targets being RAF Lakenheath and nuclear facilities in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Western militaries failed to intercept any drones, highlighting vulnerabilities in NATO's air defenses. The operation aimed to gather intelligence, test air defenses, and exert psychological pressure on European nations. Experts warn that this represents a strategic failure for NATO, as the drones operated with substantial impunity. The frequency of drone activity has reportedly decreased in 2026 following increased naval vigilance against suspicious vessels.