(Commonwealth_Europe) Britain is preparing to grant its armed forces stronger powers to deal with the growing threat of unidentified drones near its military bases; Defence Minister John Healey is expected to announce on Monday. The move comes amid increasing concerns about the Russia-Ukraine war.
Healey, speaking to defence officials, will outline plans for new legislation under the Armed Forces Bill that would explicitly authorise troops to shoot down unidentified drones that appear to threaten UK military sites. The step reflects mounting unease across Europe, as drones have repeatedly disrupted airspace and raised fears of espionage or sabotage.
“Last month, we saw 19 drones cross the Polish border. Days later, Russian jets violated Estonia’s airspace. At the same time, Russia mounted a concerted campaign to subvert Moldova’s election,” Healey will say, according to an excerpt of his remarks shared ahead of time. “As we speak, we are developing new powers – to be put into law – to shoot down unidentified drones over UK military sites.”
The announcement follows several recent incidents that have alarmed European governments. Drone incursions have forced airport closures, delayed flights, and prompted emergency responses in several countries. While many of the incidents remain under investigation, officials and intelligence sources across the continent have frequently pointed to Russia, which has been accused of testing NATO’s defences and seeking to destabilise neighbouring nations. Moscow has consistently denied any involvement.
According to The Telegraph, which first reported the plans, the new powers will initially cover only military installations, but the government has not ruled out extending similar authority to civilian sites, including airports. At present, the British military can use advanced counter-drone technology to detect, jam, or hijack drone signals, but the decision to shoot down a drone is permitted only under exceptional circumstances. The upcoming legislation would make such actions easier and legally clearer for personnel responding to potential threats.
The timing of the announcement underscores how seriously Britain and its NATO allies are taking drone and airspace violations. Earlier this month, two Royal Air Force aircraft joined U.S. and NATO forces for a 12-hour surveillance mission along Russia’s borders, in a show of unity following multiple airspace incursions in countries like Romania and Estonia.
For the UK, the new measures signal a determination to adapt quickly to modern threats, where small, unmanned devices can pose as much of a security risk as conventional weapons, and to ensure that those tasked with defending the country have the tools and authority they need to respond decisively.
