Unidentified drones have recently been spotted over Volkel Air Base in the Netherlands, a facility utilized by NATO. According to the Dutch defense ministry, military personnel attempted to neutralize the drones, which were observed between 19:00 and 21:00 local time on Friday. However, the drones left the area and were not recovered.
This incident is part of a larger trend in which several northern European countries, including the Netherlands, have reported similar drone sightings near military installations and airfields in recent months. In response to Friday’s occurrence, Dutch police have opened an investigation but have not disclosed specific details regarding the drones or the nature of the actions taken.
Volkel Air Base is significant both for its role in the Royal Netherlands Air Force and for hosting a U.S. Air Force squadron as part of NATO operations. The recent surge in drone sightings has prompted concerns about air traffic disruptions and heightened security measures across several countries, including Belgium, Denmark, and Germany.
Investigations into these incidents have been complicated by the absence of clear evidence regarding the origins of the drones, as many depart before being tracked. Some European officials have linked these sightings to potential “hybrid warfare” tactics, particularly considering that the affected nations are allies of Ukraine. Russia, however, has consistently denied involvement in these incidents.
In light of the increasing drone activity, defense ministers from ten EU countries have agreed to establish a “drone wall” and some nations are implementing anti-drone defense strategies. The effectiveness and implications of these measures remain to be seen.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cewjlr0v02ro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss