Previously secret files have unveiled that the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) was once ordered to investigate unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) and explore the possibility of acquiring advanced technology from them. This directive came after credible intelligence suggested UFOs were real and capable of outmaneuvering known aircraft.
Key Takeaways
- The Defence Intelligence Staff was tasked in the 1990s to examine UAP reports.
- Internal memos acknowledged the potential threat and the possibility of advanced technology.
- Reports from Belgium and the Rendlesham Forest incident were specifically cited.
- The MoD ceased investigating UFOs/UAP in 2009.
Serious Investigation into UAP
Documents declassified and placed in the National Archives indicate that the Defence Intelligence Staff treated the subject of UAP with significant seriousness during the 1990s. An internal memo from March 1997 stated that the sheer volume of sightings suggested a "basis in fact" and that UAPs could pose a "potential threat to the defence of the realm" due to their unknown nature.
Pursuit of Extraterrestrial Technology
Intelligence officers considered the possibility of "technology acquisition." Reports from Belgium detailing thousands of sightings of large, silent, low-flying black triangles between 1989 and 1990 were particularly influential. These craft, confirmed by Belgium’s MoD, were observed hovering and accelerating to supersonic speeds, outrunning F-16 fighter jets. A report noted, "If this represents real technology perhaps it should be acquired."
The Rendlesham Forest incident of 1980, involving a "craft of unknown origin" reportedly landing near a US air force base in Suffolk, was also referenced. The documents highlighted that in both the Belgian and Rendlesham cases, the UAP appeared to lack conventional propulsion and exhibited capabilities beyond current human engineering knowledge.
Global Interest and Future Policy
Internal correspondence acknowledged that while most UFO reports were unsubstantiated, a small number presented phenomena that could not be immediately explained. The possibility of "hostile powers" possessing such technology was considered, but the potential for "extraterrestrial" origins was not dismissed. The documents also noted international interest, mentioning French involvement and informal intelligence groupings in the US.
Despite the potential for ridicule, the MoD’s stance was to "retain an open mind." The files suggested that future concerns, whether "terrestrial or extraterrestrial," would likely require national or international coordination. The possibility of life beyond Earth was considered plausible, given ongoing astronomical discoveries.
Cessation of Investigations
In December 2024, the minister for defence readiness stated that the MoD stopped investigating UFOs or UAP reports in 2009, deeming it more valuable to prioritize other defense activities. There are no current plans to re-establish a dedicated team for such investigations, and the MoD maintains that no reported sighting has indicated a military threat to the UK.
Sources
Founder Dinis Guarda
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