The British military undertook investigations into unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) during the 1990s, driven by a belief that extraterrestrial technology could enhance national defense capabilities. Recently unsealed files reveal that the UK’s Defence Intelligence Staff, now known as Defence Intelligence, received directives to explore these phenomena following a surge of reported sightings in Belgium between November 1989 and April 1990.
A memo from March 1997 outlined the rationale behind the investigations, stating, “Logic would indicate that if significant numbers are reporting seeing strange objects in the sky then there may be a basis in fact.” The document emphasized that UAPs could potentially threaten national security, as their nature and technology remained unknown.
Reports indicated that numerous witnesses observed “large, silent, low-flying black triangles” showcasing propulsion capabilities that appeared to surpass any known aircraft technology. Consequently, intelligence officials began considering the acquisition of such advancements. One report suggested the need for “technology acquisition,” noting the unusual characteristics of the Belgian sightings, which were confirmed by the Belgian Ministry of Defence.
The documents highlighted that these phenomena did not seem to utilize conventional propulsion systems. The unidentified crafts were reportedly capable of hovering for extended periods and accelerating to supersonic speeds, even outpacing F-16 fighter jets.
Another significant incident referenced in the reports involved a purported landing at Rendlesham Forest. This site, near a US Air Force base in Woodbridge, Suffolk, was alleged to have witnessed a glowing craft of unknown origin briefly touching down in 1980 before rapidly ascending. The landing was reportedly confirmed by the unit commander and other personnel stationed at the base.
The files also acknowledged that other countries had expressed interest in investigating UAP technology. “In both [Belgian and Rendlesham Forest] cases, the UAP apparently did not use any conventional propulsion system and could hover as well as move at considerable speed,” the report stated. The documents indicated that France had a longstanding interest in the subject, and there was awareness of an informal intelligence group in the United States focusing on similar issues.
While most UFO sightings catalogued were deemed uncredible, the reports acknowledged that a few could not be explained using conventional scientific understanding. “Some reports described objects in terms of maneuver, speed, and shape which lie beyond our engineering knowledge and that which could be reasonably expected from hostile powers,” the memo explained. This created challenges in assessing the reports quickly enough to warrant a timely response.
The files further noted that engagement with UAPs could necessitate national or international collaboration, particularly within security alliances. The research directives were expected to raise skepticism within intelligence circles, leading to recommendations for maintaining an open mind on the subject.
Acknowledging the potential for ridicule, the documents recognized that discussions surrounding UAPs often attracted “mirth and a range of Little Green Men jokes.” This perception was attributed to the subject’s association with fringe theories and a general lack of credible intelligence information surrounding the phenomena.
The unsealed documents have been archived at the National Archives located in Kew, southwest London. In December 2024, the UK Minister for Defence Readiness, Luke Pollard, stated that the Ministry of Defence had ceased investigating UFO reports in 2009 and emphasized that there are currently “no plans” to allocate resources for future investigations into alleged sightings.
