Man arrested after drone breaches restricted airspace near Windsor Castle ahead of Trump state visit
Thames Valley Police detained a 37-year-old after a drone violation amid tightened security for U.S. President Donald Trump's itinerary in the U.K.
A man was arrested Tuesday after a drone was flown into restricted airspace near Windsor Castle a day before U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Britain for a state visit, Thames Valley Police said.
The 37-year-old, from a London suburb, was detained at Windsor Great Park on suspicion of breaching airspace restrictions that form part of enhanced security measures for the visit. He remained in custody; suspects in England are not named unless charged.
Thames Valley Police said the incident occurred as the force ramped up protection around key locations tied to the visit. Officers monitored Windsor from the air, deployed armed officers on streets, and patrolled the River Thames to provide additional security, the force said.
Air restrictions implemented for the visit remain in place through Thursday for the Windsor area and at Chequers, the country residence where Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to host Trump on Thursday. The state visit will include a formal banquet at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles III on Wednesday.
Police did not release further details about the drone or the circumstances of the breach. Authorities typically investigate airspace violations to determine intent and any potential threat to protected sites and visiting dignitaries.
The arrest comes amid intensive preparations by U.K. security services for the arrival of a foreign head of state, which commonly involve temporary no-fly zones, increased visible policing, and coordination between local and national agencies. Thames Valley Police said its activity formed part of wider plans to ensure the safety of the public and those attending planned events during the visit.
State visits are rare and involve ceremonial duties, formal meetings and public engagements that draw significant security resources. Officials have emphasized the logistical complexity of such visits and the need to maintain strict controls over airspace and public areas when high-profile events are held.
No charges had been announced in connection with Tuesday’s arrest. Investigations by relevant authorities were ongoing, and police statements said further action would depend on the outcome of inquiries into the airspace violation.