Drones reportedly spotted at NATO-linked base in Norway and near Dutch airport

Norway

Media reports say that on Saturday morning, police officers and military personnel spotted drones at Ørland Air Base.

Police Chief of Staff Mattis Hamborg said the observations lasted two and a half hours. He added that silhouettes and light signals consistent with drones were detected both south and north of the runway. Authorities are now investigating what happened and who was responsible.

He stated that the observations lasted for two and a half hours. The investigation is now attempting to determine what happened and who was behind it.

At the same time, the Air Force operations staff said the possible drone appearances did not affect flights. The drones were observed at least twice.

Ørland Air Base is a combat base that houses numerous F-35 fighter jets. In recent days, NATO exercises have taken place there, involving 450 personnel from 16 countries.

Netherlands

NOS reported that an object resembling a drone was seen at Schiphol Airport today. The Polderbaan runway was closed for about 45 minutes after pilots and plane spotters suggested they had seen a drone.

Around 12:10 PM local time, air traffic control received multiple reports from pilots of a drone flying at an altitude of about 150 meters.

After investigating, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee said it was most likely not a drone, as it did not appear on radar. Authorities now suspect it may have been a balloon. Police also searched the area using a helicopter but found nothing.

Drones in NATO countries

This is not the first time unidentified drones have appeared in NATO airspace.

On September 27, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Kremlin is using drone provocations to test Europe's response and weaken support for Ukraine.

According to the President, Putin plans to open a new front before the war in Ukraine ends.