Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UK Sends RAF Counter-Drone Team to Belgium After Airport Disruptions

Belgium requested allied help following airport closures from unidentified drones.

Overview

  • Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton said the UK is deploying personnel and equipment to Belgium at its request, with the support already en route.
  • Defence Secretary John Healey directed a small RAF specialist unit trained to detect, track and defeat unmanned aerial systems.
  • Recent drone sightings triggered temporary shutdowns and diversions at Brussels and Liège airports, disrupting thousands of passengers.
  • Unidentified flights have also been reported near a Belgian military site that hosts U.S. nuclear weapons, intensifying security concerns.
  • Investigations have not confirmed attribution; some officials suspect Russian hybrid activity and the Kremlin denies involvement, as Germany and France provide specialist assistance to Belgium.