Unknown drones spotted flying over Belgian nuclear power plant

Three drones were seen over Belgium's Doel Nuclear Power Plant on the evening of 9 November, shortly after drone activity had also disrupted operations at Liège airport. Air traffic resumed around 20:25.

As reported by Belgian broadcaster RTBF, energy company Engie reported shortly before 22:00 that three drones had been spotted over the Doel Nuclear Power Station.

Engie spokesperson Hellen Smeets said the drones had not affected the operation of the facility. "The relevant authorities are continuing to monitor the situation," she added.

The Scheldewaas police authorities declined to comment on the incident.

Air traffic at Liège airport was suspended on the evening of 9 November after drones were spotted, according to Belgian air traffic control company Skeyes. Christian Delcourt, head of public relations at the airport, said flights were halted after the first drone was spotted around 19:30, and two more were observed about 15 minutes later.

Drones were spotted over Liège airport almost daily last week. Similar disruptions occurred at Brussels airport on Tuesday and Thursday evening.

In recent days and weeks, drones have also been spotted over several military bases.

The UK France and Germany are sending personnel and equipment to help Belgium counter drone incursions around sensitive facilities.

Belgian intelligence services believe a foreign state, most likely Russia, is behind the recent series of drone incidents.