
A series of unauthorized drone flights over one of the most important US Air Force bases has raised serious national security concerns.
Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, home to B-52 strategic bombers and a key nuclear command structure, was placed on a state of emergency on March 9 after reports of an unmanned aerial system over its territory.
Although the measure was lifted within the day, the drone flights continued for almost a week.
According to a confidential internal document reported by ABC News, from March 9 to 15, "multiple waves" of 12 to 15 drones were observed operating over sensitive areas of the base, including the flight deck.
The devices featured non-commercial features, long-distance control connections, and resistance to interference.
The drones entered and exited the base's airspace in a coordinated manner, using different routes and deliberate maneuvers to avoid identifying the operators.
Analysts believe the devices were specially built and required advanced technical knowledge, precluding their use by ordinary users.
Lights placed on the drone suggest that the operators may have been testing the response of the base's security systems.
Authorities warn that such incidents may continue and pose a serious threat, as they force the interruption of air operations and endanger aircraft in flight.
Flying drones over military installations is considered a criminal offense under federal law, and investigations are underway in cooperation with federal and local agencies.