Illegal Drone Neutralized at Nuclear Submarine Base
French authorities are investigating an unauthorized drone overflight at a nuclear submarine base on the Atlantic coast. The incident, confirmed by officials on Friday, involved multiple drones detected over the Île Longue base in Brittany. This facility is home to France’s four nuclear ballistic missile submarines: Le Triomphant, Le Téméraire, Le Vigilant, and Le Terrible.
Drone Incident Details
The overflight occurred on Thursday night, prompting a swift response from military personnel at the site. While reports of several drones emerged, the military has not disclosed the exact number or types involved. Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin confirmed that the personnel successfully intercepted the drones.
- Date of Incident: Thursday night
- Location: Île Longue base, Brittany, France
- Military Assets Involved: Le Triomphant, Le Téméraire, Le Vigilant, and Le Terrible
Official Responses
Minister Vautrin emphasized the illegality of flying drones over military sites in France. She commended the quick action of military personnel during the interception. However, specific countermeasures used—such as shots fired or electronic jamming—remain undisclosed.
Broader Context of Drone Intrusions
This incident is part of a larger trend of unauthorized drone activities across Europe. Many EU countries have reported similar flights, some leading to airport closures and disruptions in commercial air travel. Reports have often linked these violations to Russian activities in airspace over Estonia and Poland.
- Recent Trends: Increase in unauthorized drone flights in Europe
- Impact: Airport shutdowns and commercial flight disruptions
- Attributions: Russia blamed for several airspace violations
Heightened Security Measures
In response to these growing concerns, European leaders are discussing the implementation of a “drone wall” along their borders. This initiative aims to improve the detection and interception of drones violating airspace. Recently, NATO deployed a new US anti-drone system to bolster defenses on the alliance’s eastern flank.
As tensions rise, France and its allies remain vigilant against unauthorized drone activities, particularly around sensitive military sites.
