UK military bases report 340 drone incidents in a year as Russia and Iran threats rise

In the United Kingdom, drone incidents near military bases have surged to 340 in the year to August 2026, up from 250 the previous year, according to Ministry of Defence data. Experts, including former defence minister Tobias Ellwood, link many incidents to Russia and Iran, warning the UK is unprepared. The rise coincides with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's warning of potential Russian drone or missile strikes on NATO countries. The UK government has increased counter-drone spending and expanded restricted airspace, but critics say more action is needed.