The MoD UFO files
For decades the Ministry of Defence received and filed public UFO reports. Its UFO desk was closed in 2009, and the files were released to the National Archives, where they can be searched online.
Why there are so many reports
Busy airspace, military bases and a long tradition of public reporting all contribute. Most reports in the files were found to be aircraft, satellites, balloons, lanterns or astronomical objects.
Famous UK cases
Rendlesham Forest (1980)
Lights reported by USAF personnel in Suffolk – Britain's best-known case.
Read the full case →
Berwyn Mountain (1974)
A loud bang and lights in North Wales, later linked to an earthquake and a meteor.
Calvine photo (1990)
A photo of a diamond-shaped object in Scotland, whose image was released in 2022.
How to report a UFO sighting in the UK
- The MoD no longer investigates UFO reports, so use a civilian research group.
- Note date, time, location, direction and duration.
- Check satellite trackers and flight radar before submitting.
- Only contact the police if there is a risk to safety, e.g. a drone near an airport.
Questions
Where can I read the UK UFO files?
The released Ministry of Defence UFO files are available through the National Archives.
Does the UK government still investigate UFOs?
No. The MoD closed its UFO desk in 2009 and no longer records or investigates reports.