France Investigates Suspected Drone Overflights at Nuclear Submarine Base; EU Calls it "Hybrid Warfare"

France Investigates Suspected Drone Overflights at Critical Nuclear Submarine Base

French authorities have launched a formal investigation into reports of unauthorized drone activity over a highly sensitive nuclear submarine facility on the Atlantic coast. The incident, which reportedly unfolded late on Thursday, December 4th, has ignited significant national security concerns, prompting a dedicated military affairs prosecutor in Rennes to lead the probe.

Reports of Multiple Incursions

According to Jean-Marie Blin, the military affairs prosecutor, multiple drone overflights were reported spanning from approximately 7 PM local time on Thursday evening until 1 AM on Friday morning. Blin noted that the bulk of these sightings occurred during the initial hours of the reported activity. While addressing earlier speculation, Prosecutor Blin explicitly denied claims that paramilitary police officers had discharged firearms at the suspected drones. However, he confirmed that "precautionary measures" were indeed taken by personnel stationed at the base in response to the perceived threat.

Ile Longue: A Strategic Asset

The facility in question, the Ile Longue base, is a cornerstone of France's defense capabilities, located in the country's northwest. It serves as the home port for France's nuclear-powered submarines. As detailed on the French navy's official website, each submarine housed at Ile Longue is a formidable asset, equipped with 16 ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads, underscoring the critical nature of the site's security.

"Hybrid Warfare" Concerns Across Europe

This incident is not an isolated event but rather part of a broader pattern. Europe has witnessed a noticeable increase in disruptive drone intrusions into its airspace over recent months, many of unknown origin. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has publicly labeled such incursions as "hybrid warfare," a term signifying actions that blend conventional military tactics with unconventional methods to destabilize or influence. Although Russia is frequently implicated in such activities, it consistently issues denials regarding its involvement.

Verifying the Sightings

At this stage, the French investigation is primarily focused on rigorously verifying the veracity of the reported drone sightings. Prosecutor Blin emphasized the need for caution, stating that while some reports could be "completely fanciful," others are considered "much more serious." The investigative team is meticulously reviewing accounts from various individuals on site, including gendarmes and military officers, to accurately determine the scope and nature of the alleged overflights.

The ongoing probe highlights the escalating security challenges posed by unauthorized drone operations, particularly concerning vital national infrastructure like the Ile Longue nuclear submarine base.