What we know about the Langley Air Force Base drone incident

Langley Air Force Base officials are in the market for special anti-drone nets to protect their tactical aircraft from prying eyes after waves of still-unexplained uncrewed aerial vehicles buzzed the base.

Incident Details:

• In December 2023, Langley Air Force Base experienced drone overflights for more than two weeks
• A dozen or more drones were involved in the incident
• The number of aerial incursions fluctuated daily
• The drones did not appear to exhibit hostile intent
• The identity of the drone operators remains unknown

 Military Response:

• Military commanders have the authority to protect forces, facilities, and infrastructure
• No action was taken to destroy or disable the drone swarms
• Coordination with interagency partners was required due to the incident occurring on U.S. soil
• The Department of Defense is continuing to analyze the incident

Protective Measures:

• Langley Air Force Base is now seeking anti-drone nets to protect tactical aircraft
• The nets are intended to cover up to 42 aircraft shelters on the flight line
• The goal is to deter and prevent drone intrusions near airmen and aircraft

Related Incident:

• A Chinese national, Fengyun Shi, was arrested for drone activities near Newport News shipyard
• Mr. Shi captured drone footage of U.S. Navy vessels, including submarines and aircraft carriers
• The incident occurred on January 6, 2024, about 10 miles from Langley Air Force Base
• Mr. Shi pleaded guilty under the Espionage Act and was sentenced to six months in prison

Ongoing Concerns:

• The Pentagon is keeping a close watch on such drone incursions
• The incidents highlight potential security vulnerabilities at military installations
• There’s increased focus on protecting sensitive military assets from unauthorized aerial surveillance

Read more: Mystery drone swarm over Langley base has Air Force scrambling for cover