Russia ‘mounted drone surveillance of European nuclear sites over 18 months’
Summary
Researchers found that Russia used drones launched from hidden ships over 18 months to spy on nuclear sites in several European countries including the UK, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The drones were not intercepted by Western militaries, revealing weaknesses in NATO’s air defenses.Key Facts
- The surveillance lasted about 18 months, starting in late 2024.
- Russia’s drones flew over nuclear sites and military airbases in more than a dozen NATO countries plus Ireland.
- Some targeted sites were RAF Lakenheath in the UK and the Île Longue submarine base in France.
- Drones were launched from “shadow fleet” vessels that turned off tracking devices to stay hidden.
- Western military forces did not shoot down or capture these drones despite repeated sightings.
- The drone campaign showed NATO’s defenses struggled with small, low-flying unmanned aircraft.
- Russia’s goals included spying on nuclear forces, gathering military logistics info, and applying pressure through psychological tactics.
- Drone sightings decreased after European navies started capturing these shadow vessels in 2026.
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