Cromer:Royal Air Force aircraft experienced two near misses with suspected drones over the North Sea during military exercises in February. These incidents were reported by the British newspaper The Telegraph.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the incidents took place within days of each other during an air-to-air refueling exercise and simulated aerial combat training. Both objects were spotted at altitudes above 10,000 feet.

In the first incident, an RAF Airbus Voyager tanker was refueling a Typhoon fighter near Cromer, Norfolk, when an unidentified object passed so close that the tanker pilot reflexively ducked. The encounter was reported to military controllers by the commander.

On February 23, a Typhoon pilot engaged in aerial combat practice near Humberside observed a black circular object passing approximately 300 feet above the aircraft. This sighting was reported to the radar controller, who then informed North Yorkshire Police.

There are multiple external investigations ongoing to determine the nature of these objects. It is still unclear if they were hostile. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated that enhanced vigilance and improved detection capabilities have strengthened the ability to identify, record, and assess potential drone activity.

The spokesperson also mentioned that the UK is investing over £2 billion in broadening its air defense and counter-drone capabilities, which includes upgrades and maintenance for the Typhoon fleet. The ministry emphasized that reported drone sightings are not necessarily hostile and that measures are in place to respond if deemed a credible threat.