RAF Jets Report Near Misses with Unidentified Drones Over UK

• •RAF jets reported two near-misses with unidentified drones over the North Sea.
• •The drones operated at altitudes significantly above the legal limit for commercial drones.
• •The UK Ministry of Defence is investing £2 billion to enhance air defence against drone threats.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) has reported two near-miss incidents involving unidentified drones in UK airspace this year, occurring during simulated combat training and air-to-air refuelling exercises over the North Sea. Both drones were spotted at altitudes exceeding the legal limit of 400 feet, with one reaching 17,000 feet. The RAF has notified police and multiple external investigations are currently underway to assess the incidents. While there is no direct evidence linking the drones to hostile nations, the sightings come amid rising concerns about drone surveillance operations by foreign powers, particularly Russia and Iran. The Ministry of Defence is investing over £2 billion in air defence and counter-drone capabilities in response to a significant increase in drone-related security incidents, with 340 reported at or near Ministry of Defence sites in the year leading up to August 2026. Experts warn that the UK military is increasingly viewed as a target for such operations.