RAF jets reported two encounters with unidentified objects over North Sea

RAF jets had two reported encounters with unidentified objects during exercises over the North Sea earlier this year, according to a Daily Telegraph report summarised by the BBC. The sightings were reported to police and are the subject of external investigations, but the Ministry of Defence cautions that drone sightings are not necessarily hostile. [1] [2]

The Telegraph said the incidents happened days apart during simulated air-combat training and an air-to-air refuelling exercise. It reported that one sighting was near Norfolk and the other near Humberside, at 17,000ft. Incident logs seen by the newspaper reportedly state that police were notified and that “multiple different external investigations” are ongoing. [2]

The Independent also reported the encounters, citing the Telegraph, but gave the altitude as above 10,000ft rather than specifying 17,000ft. Neither report establishes that the objects were confirmed to be drones or that they were hostile. [1] [2]

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson declined to comment on the specific incidents. The department said it was vigilant about potential drone activity and that it had measures to respond where activity is assessed to pose a credible threat. It added that reports of drone sightings are not necessarily hostile. [1]