A U.S. Air Force base has confirmed that multiple drones descended upon the base, sparking serious concern.
As tensions rise with the US and Israel now engaged in conflict with Iran following strikes on the country, it’s easy to understand why military installations and commanders may be especially alert to potential threats.
That backdrop has added weight to a recent event at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, where multiple drones reportedly entered the base’s airspace in repeated “waves,” triggering alarm.
Retired Colonel Steve Ganyard reflected on the incident and what it could signal going forward.
He said: “The Air force was not able to do anything to stop them…The sophistication we see in both how the drones were employed and the kind of drones don’t point to some hobbyist.
“They point to a state actor.”
An internal briefing document viewed by ABC News said the situation was particularly concerning because Barksdale is home to long-range B-52 bombers and has an important role in command and control tied to the Air Force’s nuclear defense capabilities.
Barksdale Air Force Base also told ABC that an investigation had been opened, confirming it detected multiple unauthorized drones operating in its airspace during the week of March 9.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, a BAFB spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the alleged flights.
He said: “Flying a drone over a military installation is not only a safety issue, it is a criminal offense under federal law.
“The security of our installation and the safety of our people are top priorities, and we will continue to vigilantly monitor our airspace.”
The same document warned the incursions could have immediate operational consequences, noting that drone activity can force shutdowns on the flight line and create hazards for manned aircraft already in the area.
The document also stated: “The drone incursions at BAFB pose a significant threat to public safety and national security since they require the flight line to be shut down while also putting manned aircrafts already inflight in the area at risk.”
Analysts involved in the assessment reportedly believed, with “high confidence,” that unauthorized drone activity could continue in the short term. They also concluded the drones appeared to be custom-built and that whoever operated them likely had “advanced knowledge” of signal operations.
Former deputy assistant secretary of defense Mick Mulroy echoed Ganyard’s concerns and questioned who might be responsible.
He said: “Certainly, it seemed to be more than just your average drone enthusiast who just pushed it too far. It looked like this was deliberate and intentional to see just how they would react.”