November 20, 1980🇬🇧Military Encounter

RAF Neatishead Radar Tracks UFO Over North Sea

RAF Neatishead radar station tracks an unidentified object over the North Sea near oil platforms. On November 25, an object is observed near a North Sea oil platform and RAF dispatches a Nimrod maritime patrol aircraft to investigate. Significant military radar case from UK.

Date
November 20, 1980
Location
Norfolk / North Sea
Type
Military Encounter
Country
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Map

Background

1. In November 1980, RAF Neatishead radar station tracked an unidentified object over the North Sea, exhibiting unconventional aerial maneuvers. This event was followed by a sighting near a North Sea oil platform, prompting an RAF investigation. This case represents a significant military radar encounter in the UK.

The Incident

RAF Neatishead, a radar station in Norfolk, tracked an object performing aerial maneuvers that "defied all convention" sometime in November 1980. An RAF Phantom pilot also observed the object, describing it as very bright and directly in front of him. On November 25, at 6:40 a.m., a glowing orange ball was observed maneuvering around an oil platform in the North Sea.

Investigation

Following the initial radar tracking, senior RAF personnel questioned witnesses and confiscated the radar tapes. After the November 25th sighting near the oil platform, the RAF dispatched a Nimrod maritime patrol aircraft to the area to investigate. No official conclusions were ever reached regarding the nature of the object or objects.

Significance

This event is significant due to the involvement of military radar and personnel, including an RAF Phantom pilot. The confiscation of radar tapes suggests a high level of interest and potential concern within the RAF regarding the nature of the unidentified object. The lack of official conclusions, despite the military investigation, adds to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the incident. The case is considered a significant military radar case from the UK.

Connections