Drones spotted near US Air Force bases in Ohio, Utah and reportedly Germany

WASHINGTON (TNND) — Drone-like systems were recently spotted near Air Force bases in at least three locations in the U.S. and Germany, according to military spokespersons and a report.

Chief of Public Affairs Bob Purtiman of the 88th Air Base Wing at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio told The National News Desk (TNND) that “small unmanned aerial systems” were spotted around the base over the last week.

There were also “unmanned aerial systems” at Hill Air Force Base in Utah recently, a spokesperson for the 75th Air Base Wing said in a statement to TNND.

Air & Space Forces Magazine reported Tuesday that drones were sighted over the Ramstein Air Base, an American base, in Germany as well. A spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force reportedly confirmed the sightings to Reuters last week.

Purtiman told TNND the 88th Wing had to close one of its airspaces following the sightings this past weekend. Between Monday night and early Tuesday morning, other “aerial systems” were spotted, according to the public affairs chief.

“The number of systems has fluctuated, and they have ranged in sizes and configurations,” he said. “Our units continue to monitor the airspace and are working with local law enforcement authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities and assets.”

In Utah, the 75th Wing spokesperson said in their statement that “aerial systems” were spotted in the vicinity of Hill Air Force Base.

“To date, unmanned aerial systems have not impacted Hill AFB operations and all appropriate measures are being taken to safeguard Hill AFB personnel, assets, and infrastructure,” the statement reads. “We continue to monitor the airspace and are working with local authorities to track the unmanned aerial systems.”

The spokesperson added that “we retain the right to protect our installations,” but noted they do not discuss “specific force protection measure” because of “operational security” reasons.

“We request that individuals in the area contact local police or Hill AFB Security Forces if they see anything suspicious, to include unmanned aerial system activity over Hill AFB,” the statement concludes.

According to Air & Space Forces Magazine, drones were seen around Ramstein Air Base early this month. They reportedly varied in size and configuration.

“In concert with host nation authorities, we continue to monitor the airspace to ensure safety and security of the community,” the magazine quoted a spokesperson for the 86th Airlift Wing as saying.

TNND requested comment from Ramstein Air Base and the U.S. Air Force regarding the reports about the Germany base, but did not immediately receive responses.

Have questions, concerns or tips? Send them to Ray at rjlewis@sbgtv.com.